Robert Irwin Honors Late Dad with Touching “DWTS” Rituals

Robert Irwin has captivated the nation, not just with his dance moves on Dancing With the Stars but with a heartfelt tribute to his late father, Steve Irwin. The 21-year-old wildlife warrior revealed the personal rituals he performs before each DWTS performance, leaving fans both teary-eyed and inspired.

A Shirt That Holds a Legacy

On November 16, Robert shared a TikTok video explaining his pre-show good luck charms. The first is his father’s green button-up shirt, tattered and missing buttons.

“I found this shirt while going through my dad’s things,” Robert explained. “It has holes and tears, but each tells a story. It’s exactly how Dad lived his life.”

He patches it, but not too much—wanting it to remain authentic. Before every rehearsal with partner Witney Carson, he wears the shirt.

“It’s like a big hug from him,” he said. “When I step into the ballroom, I carry my dad’s legacy, my family, and my home.”