Robert Irwin Steals Spotlight with “Wild” Jive on DWTS Premiere

Lead: Australian conservationist Robert Irwin opened the Season 34 premiere of Dancing with the Stars with a high‐energy jive to “Born to Be Wild,” scoring 15 out of 20 and topping the leaderboard on ABC Tuesday night in Los Angeles.

Nut Graf: Son of the late “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, 21-year-old Robert teamed with pro dancer Witney Carson for a wildlife-themed routine that earned praise as the best first dance in show history, underscoring the show’s nostalgic pull and broad appeal.

Opening Night Highlights

Showcase of Irwin’s Heritage Clad in his signature khaki attire, Irwin infused tricks and “wildlife flair” into his jive, drawing gasps from the audience and judges alike.
Top Score and Judges’ Praise Derek Hough awarded him an eight, and Bruno Tonioli a seven, culminating in a 15-point total-tied only with Whitney Leavitt-while Hough declared it “the best first dance he’d ever seen on the show”.
Family Reaction Watching ringside and online, Terri Irwin posted “I am so proud,” and sister Bindi exclaimed “CRIKEY!!!!!!!!” under the official DWTS Instagram recap of the performance.

Competition and Format

Season 34 Dynamics

14 celebrities paired with professionals
Weekly eliminations leading to Mirrorball Trophy finale
New episodes air Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, streaming next day on Hulu

Nostalgia Factor Producers have leaned into the Irwin family legacy, with Bindi present to introduce Robert’s package and bolster the emotional narrative.

What’s Next

Double Elimination Week 2 promises a double elimination under the “One-Hit Wonders” theme, further intensifying the race for votes.
Viewers’ Vote Despite producers’ backing of Irwin, audience votes will ultimately decide who advances each week.

With a show-stopping jive and a powerful family backstory, Robert Irwin has emerged as an early frontrunner in the quest for DWTS gold.