Before every performance on “Dancing With The Stars,” Robert Irwin honors his late father in a deeply sentimental way. The 21-year-old wears a cherished old blue shirt that belonged to Steve Irwin, which serves as his “good luck charm” during rehearsals.
In a heartfelt Instagram video, Robert shared the significance of the shirt, describing it as a connection to his father. “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,” he explained. The shirt, despite its tattered appearance with holes and missing buttons, was lovingly restored by Robert, who appreciates the stories each tear and imperfection represents. He sees this as a reflection of how his father lived life to the fullest.
Every Tuesday, leading up to show day, Robert puts on the shirt for his first rehearsals. He often wears it under his costume during dress rehearsals, ensuring that before he performs on stage, he has danced in his father’s shirt. “Every time I step out into the ballroom, I represent my message, my dad’s legacy, my home, my family,” he shared, cherishing the opportunity to honor his father through dance.
In addition to the shirt, Robert also wears a ring made from a set of keys from his childhood home. He had the keys melted down and crafted into a beautiful gold ring engraved with the number 1638, which is the street address of his family’s home at Australia Zoo. He puts the ring on every Tuesday morning before the live taping. This combination of memorabilia symbolizes both his family’s legacy and the profound impact his father has had on his life.
Robert’s journey on “Dancing With The Stars” is not just a competition for him; it’s a way to keep his father’s spirit alive and to celebrate the lasting influence Steve Irwin had on his life. The whimsical dance floor becomes a place where cherished memories meet the joy of performance.