Derek Hough Emotional as Robert Irwin’s Tribute Dance Earns Perfect Score on DWTS

A heartfelt tribute moved the ballroom on “Dancing with the Stars.” Robert Irwin and pro Witney Carson performed a dance honoring his late father, Steve Irwin. The emotional performance left judge Derek Hough visibly fighting back tears.

The routine was set to the same song Robert’s sister, Bindi, used in her winning season. This powerful connection resonated deeply with everyone present, especially Hough, who was Bindi’s pro partner.

A Legacy Remembered on the Dance Floor

Robert and Witney danced a Foxtrot to “Footprints in the Sand.” This was a direct callback to his sister’s own tribute dance years prior. The performance ended with a photo of Steve and Terri Irwin projected onto the floor.

Robert broke down in tears immediately after the dance concluded. He was met with a supportive hug from his sister, Bindi, who was in the audience. The moment created a powerful sense of family legacy.

Judge Derek Hough was clearly moved. He stated he felt honored to be part of the Irwin family’s story once more. Hough praised Robert as a beacon of joy for his generation.

The emotional weight of the performance was felt across the entire studio. Even guest judge Tom Bergeron admitted he was struggling not to get choked up. He recalled seeing Robert as a young boy watching his sister compete.

Royal Support and a Perfect Score

Before the show, Robert received a surprise video call. Prince William contacted him during rehearsals to wish him luck. The future king jokingly referred to Robert as “twinkle toes.”

Robert explained he had to miss the Earthshot Prize ceremony for the competition. The royal well-wishes seemed to bring good fortune to the pair. Their dance was met with unanimous praise from the judges.

Bruno Tonioli called it a “royal seal of approval.” Carrie Ann Inaba described the performance as powerful and profound. The judges awarded the pair a perfect score of 40.

This was the season’s first perfect individual score. It cemented their position as strong contenders heading into the semifinals. The score reflected the technical skill and raw emotion of their dance.

Competition Nears Its Climax

The night also celebrated the show’s 20th anniversary. Former host Tom Bergeron returned for the special event. Original professional dancers from season one also made an appearance.

A poignant pro dance honored former “DWTS” family members who have passed away. This added to the night’s reflective and emotional tone. The season is now entering its final stages.

The semifinals are scheduled for next week with a Prince theme. The three-hour season finale will air on November 25. The competition for the mirrorball trophy is now incredibly tight.

Robert Irwin’s tribute dance was a defining moment of the season, proving that the most powerful performances are those steeped in genuine feeling and personal history, leaving even seasoned pros like a visibly emotional Derek Hough deeply moved.

Thought you’d like to know

What song did Robert Irwin dance to?

Robert and Witney performed a Foxtrot to “Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis. This was the same song his sister Bindi used for her own tribute dance. The song choice created a powerful link between the two performances.

Why was Derek Hough so emotional?

Derek Hough was Bindi Irwin’s professional partner when she won her season. Seeing Robert honor his family’s legacy with the same song brought back strong memories. He felt deeply honored to be connected to their story again.

Did Robert Irwin get a perfect score?

Yes, Robert and Witney earned a perfect 40 out of 40. This was the first perfect individual score of the season. The judges praised the dance’s profound emotional power and technical skill.

Who called Robert Irwin before the show?

Prince William surprised Robert with a video call during rehearsals. He jokingly called Robert “twinkle toes” and wished him good luck. Robert had missed the Earthshot Prize to continue competing.

What was special about this DWTS episode?

The episode celebrated the show’s 20th anniversary. It featured the return of former host Tom Bergeron and several original pro dancers. The night was filled with nostalgia and special performances.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, Variety, Entertainment Weekly, ABC Network.