Viewers Noticed Who Wasn’t in the ‘DWTS’ Crowd — Bindi Irwin Explains Why

Bindi Irwin surprised fans by skipping this week’s live episode of “Dancing With the Stars,” choosing to cheer for her brother Robert Irwin from home instead. The wildlife conservationist revealed that she, her husband Chandler Powell, and their daughter Grace were all under the weather and unable to attend the Oct. 28 Halloween-themed show.

Bindi shared the update on Instagram just hours before the episode aired, explaining that she had completely lost her voice and was recovering from a bug sweeping through her household. Fans quickly expressed both concern and support as the Irwin family sat out one of Robert’s most anticipated performances of the season.

Bindi Irwin Misses ‘DWTS’ to Recover From Illness

In her heartfelt post, Bindi wrote that she, Chandler, and Grace would be “cheering (quietly) from our living room” as Robert and his pro partner, Witney Carson, performed their Halloween Night dance. She praised the pair’s dedication and hard work, calling their Argentine tango “incredible.”

Robert Irwin and Witney Carson danced to a haunting rendition of “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by The Hampton String Quartet, originally recorded by Eurythmics. The dance fit the spooky theme of the evening and earned praise from both judges and viewers online. Despite her absence, Bindi encouraged her followers to vote for Robert by texting his name or visiting ABC’s voting site, emphasizing how proud she was of her brother’s effort.

“They have an incredible dance for Halloween week,” she said. “Beyond proud of their hard work and dedication.” Her message sparked an outpouring of kindness from fans, many of whom flooded her comments section with well-wishes and words of encouragement.

Fans React as Bindi Irwin Skips the Ballroom

Supporters of the Irwin family quickly filled Bindi’s post with hundreds of positive messages. One fan wrote, “Feel better, we’ll miss you guys!” Another added, “The ballroom isn’t quite as joyful without all of you there, but Robert is doing a fantastic job!”

Others assured Bindi that they would cast their votes in Robert’s favor while wishing the family a quick recovery. Messages like “Get well soon guys! Robert has my votes, don’t worry,” reflected the close bond the Irwins have built with their global fan base over the years.

Even while sick, Bindi’s message reminded fans of her trademark warmth and positivity—traits that have made her one of the most beloved figures to emerge from the Irwin family legacy. Her post also reignited affection for Robert’s growing confidence as a performer on one of television’s most competitive stages.

While Bindi Irwin couldn’t be in the “DWTS” audience this week, her love and support for Robert were felt far beyond the ballroom. As fans eagerly await her return, her encouraging spirit continues to resonate both on and off the dance floor.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Bindi Irwin miss ‘Dancing With the Stars’ this week?

Bindi Irwin, her husband Chandler Powell, and their daughter Grace were sick, and Bindi lost her voice. They watched and supported Robert from home.

Q2: What song did Robert Irwin dance to on Halloween Night?

Robert and his partner Witney Carson performed an Argentine tango to “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by The Hampton String Quartet.

Q3: How can fans vote for Robert Irwin on DWTS?

Fans can vote by texting “ROBERT” to 21523 or visiting ABC.com during the live broadcast.

Q4: Did Bindi Irwin share her update on social media?

Yes, she posted on Instagram on Oct. 28, explaining her absence and cheering on her brother from home.

Q5: When does ‘Dancing With the Stars’ air?

The show airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and streams on Disney+.