Robert Irwin Carries Two Keepsakes From Dad Steve Irwin Onto Every DWTS Stage
Ahead of the Dancing With the Stars semifinals, Robert Irwin revealed the two personal items he brings to every performance — reminders of where he comes from, and who he carries with him.
As he heads into the semifinal round of Dancing With the Stars, Robert Irwin has become one of the season’s biggest surprises — not just for his continued improvement, but for the quiet, emotional story unfolding behind every performance.
In a video shared on Nov. 17, the 21-year-old revealed the two keepsakes he never steps onstage without:
- One of Steve Irwin’s old button-down shirts
- A ring made from the keys to Robert’s childhood home.
For Robert, these aren’t good-luck charms.
They’re anchors.
A Shirt That Still “Feels Like Him”
Every Tuesday — show day — begins the same way: Robert puts on one of his father’s shirts.
It wasn’t preserved in a frame or kept in a display case. Instead, Robert personally repaired it. He stitched the tears. He fixed what he could. And he chose to wear it.
In his own words:
“I like that it still looks and feels like him. Each one of the holes and the tears, and each of the missing buttons tells a story… It keeps me close to home. It keeps me close to him. It just feels like a big hug every time I put it on.”
The shirt carries him through rehearsals, warm-ups, and even the first full run-through of every routine.
Before America sees the dance, he’s already danced it once for his father.
A Ring Made From Home
While going through Steve Irwin’s old office, Robert found a set of keys to the family’s original home.
Instead of storing them away, he transformed them into something deeply meaningful:
a ring engraved with the address 1638 Steve Irwin Way, the heart of Australia Zoo.
For Robert, it’s a literal piece of home — and legacy — he brings into the ballroom every week.
Continuing the Irwin Legacy
Throughout the season, Robert has used the show to honor his father’s memory and celebrate the mission he continues with his mother, Terri, and sister, Bindi.
He’s danced tributes. He’s spoken about conservation. And he’s woven the Irwin family purpose into a global stage.
“In some way, I want him part of it. Because this experience has truly changed my life. And I know I wouldn’t be here without him and his legacy that I get to continue.”
As he enters the semifinals, he made the intention clear:
“I’m doing this for a purpose and a cause that is close to my heart: before anything else, I’m an animal conservationist. I proudly continue the work that my mum and dad started.”
Terri Irwin’s response was immediate — and emotional:
“This is incredibly special and meaningful. Your dad would be chuffed for sure. He loved you so much.”
“I love what you did with your dad’s keys.”
A Dance Floor Waltzing With Meaning
For millions of viewers, Robert’s DWTS journey has been entertaining.
For him, it’s been something deeper — a chance to honor the man who shaped him and the legacy he steps into every day.
Two keepsakes.
One legacy.
A semifinals performance carried by love, purpose, and the quiet presence of the father who taught him to lead with heart.
For more on Robert Irwin's journey on DWTS https://jeneralcommentary.com/blogs/headlines/beyond-the-ballroom-5-ways-robert-irwin-s-making-his-mark
