In the glittering chaos of Dancing with the Stars season 34, Robert Irwin turned heads once again on Tuesday's TikTok night, stripping down for a steamy salsa that left judges and viewers alike breathless. Partnered with pro dancer Witney Carson, the 21-year-old Australian conservationist—son of the late Steve Irwin—delivered a performance packed with energy, earning solid scores that kept them safely in the competition. It was just the latest in a string of standout routines for the unlikely duo, who first wowed audiences with a jive in the premiere that judge Derek Hough called the best debut he'd ever seen.
Irwin's journey on the show hasn't been without its surprises. From the high-energy tango in week two that propelled them to the top of the leaderboard, to this week's bold choice to go shirtless, he's clearly embracing the spotlight beyond his usual wildlife adventures. Carson, a seasoned pro with multiple mirrorball trophies under her belt, has been instrumental in pushing him out of his comfort zone. Yet, off the dance floor, the chemistry has fueled endless speculation. Fans have flooded Carson's DMs with "dating applications" for Irwin, prompting her to joke about screening potential American girlfriends—much like his protective sister Bindi, who even crashed a rehearsal to join the fun.
Indeed, the buzz around Irwin and Carson has veered into tabloid territory. Romance rumors swirled after their tango, but sources close to the pair quickly dismissed them as mere hype. Still, Irwin's boyish charm and that viral shirtless moment have only amplified the frenzy, with Carson admitting she's nervous about the onslaught of messages from admirers. Moreover, his participation seems to blend wholesome family legacy with the show's glitzy demands, drawing in a fresh audience eager for more than just dance steps.
However, as the season heats up, questions linger about whether Irwin's star power can carry him all the way. With eliminations ramping up and tougher challenges ahead, one wonders if this Cinderella story will hold its magic.