Robert Irwin is pushing himself hard to get in shape ahead of his upcoming appearance on Dancing with the Stars in the US, and even for the 21-year-old wildlife conservationist, it’s proving to be a challenge. On Tuesday, he shared a social media clip showing him recovering after an intense rehearsal, lying on his back in the dance studio and visibly struggling to catch his breath. Off-camera, his dance partner, Witney Carson, jokingly quipped, “I’ve killed him!” to which Robert replied with a smile, “No, you haven’t.” He captioned the video humorously: “Post rehearsals mood,” adding a laughing emoji.
Robert’s new dance partner, professional Latin ballroom dancer and choreographer Witney Carson, has drawn attention for her striking resemblance to his ex-girlfriend, Rorie Buckey. The 31-year-old dancer shares a similar warm smile, sun-kissed hair, and facial features with Rorie, who is also the niece of actor Heath Ledger. Robert, who split from Rorie in February 2024, appeared cheerful posing with Witney for Instagram photos, including one where he held a large white and yellow python around his body while Witney smiled in a form-fitting pink dress, letting the snake’s tail drape over her torso.
The Instagram caption read simply: “Robert & Witney,” accompanied by a snake and star emoji and the hashtag #DWTS. Robert will compete in the upcoming American season against celebrities like actor Corey Feldman and fitness expert Hilaria Baldwin. His participation was officially confirmed by Variety in April, following a high-profile American ad campaign for Bonds.
This marks a full decade since Robert’s sister, Bindi Irwin, won her season of Dancing with the Stars in 2015 alongside Derek Hough. The new season of DWTS US is set to premiere on Tuesday, September 16, on Disney+.
