Robert Irwin’s Mother, Terri, Reacts to His Shirtless ‘DWTS’ Performance
Robert Irwin has switched from khakis to sequins, and his most recent ballroom floor makeover is drawing attention and creating a lot of noise, even among his mother Terri Irwin.
Robert Irwin’s shirtless performance on “Dancing with the Stars,” which aired during TikTok Night almost two weeks ago, prompted Terri Irwin to comment.
A salsa to Tommy Richman’s popular song “Million Dollar Baby” was performed by the 20-year-old conservationist during the themed evening.
In stark contrast to his typical khaki outfit at the Australia Zoo, the act featured hip thrusts, sultry dancing movements, and a dramatic shirt rip.
On October 13, 2025, Terri discussed the performance in an interview. She stated:
“Being able to achieve something so different, so far out of your wheelhouse[…] makes me incredibly proud. I’m quite proud of you and quite impressed.”
“You’re amazing, but I still see you as this little tiny loaf of bread, toddling around with your chubby little legs,” she continued.
Robert recently posted a beautiful statement on Instagram, reflecting on the difficult week he spent during rehearsals, even though he did not devote that specific dance to his mother.
Over the years, he couldn’t stop thinking about his mother, her resilience, and how she managed to keep his late father, Steve Irwin, in their life.
“This dance is for my mum, it’s for anyone who’s lost someone… and it’s for all the strong mothers of the world who deserve our recognition and appreciation,” he stated in his post.
During Disney Night, he performed a cha-cha to Shakira’s “Try Everything,” which is featured in the animated movie “Zootopia.” This was his most recent performance with professional partner Witney Carson.
The song’s message of tenacity and fortitude resonated with Robert’s account of an intense rehearsal week during which he thought about his mother.
A recent shirtless picture shoot that has received a lot of attention has also helped Robert make waves off-screen, even as he continues to dazzle on the dance floor.
Robert recently posed for an eye-catching People photo shoot in collaboration with Bonds underwear, drawing attention and sparking a contentious internet discussion in an unexpected move that combines fashion and wildlife.
Bonds’ entry into the U.S. market is reflected in the photo session, which shows the 21-year-old cradling animals while wearing the Australian brand’s iconic pieces. The advertisement, which was shot in Australia and debuted in April, has generated a lot of discussion since it combines aggressive modern branding, wildlife conservation, and nostalgia.
Fans were taken aback by the imagery, but Robert was totally in favor of the idea. “I’ve done more sit-ups and had less carbs than I ever have in my life,” he said in the exclusive interview, in order to get ready for the photo session.
In addition to celebrating Bonds’ first appearance in the United States, the campaign ushers in a new era for Robert, who is most recognized for his efforts to save animals.
After the photos were up, viewers’ reactions were conflicted, despite the expert presentation. One individual wrote, “Shame on you!!!” on Instagram.
One person commented, “This looks so fake he whether it’s ai or photoshop it doesn’t even look like him [sic].” Another person questioned the photographs’ legitimacy. Someone else added, “Is this AI? Is he actually here? “Hmmm 🤨 [sic].”
A few viewers expressed surprise at the change. Someone wrote, “I’m conflicted I watched your birth episode and now you look like this [sic]!!”
Then someone else said, “Your dad will roll in his grave.” One shocked fan, meanwhile, posted, “Omg [sic] I just spit out my coffee.” Among the other remarks were “This feels inappropriate,” and “He looks so different….”
Although there have been differing views on Robert’s latest endeavors, it is evident that he is taking the limelight on his own terms by striking a balance between his family’s legacy and his own prominence in fashion and entertainment.
