When the 22‑year‑old Robert Irwin stepped onto the Disney 2026 Upfront Red Carpet, he was not just there to promote a new show; he was also ready to share a laugh about the one thing that keeps the producers of Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) on their toes: the inevitable shirtless moment. In a candid interview with Us Weekly, Irwin joked that the show “always makes me take my clothes off,” a playful nod to the countless dance routines that leave the audience—and the camera crew—breathless.
From Conservationist to Dance Floor Star
Robert Irwin’s journey to the dance floor is anything but ordinary. Growing up in the heart of the Australian outback, he spent his early years rescuing snakes, caring for crocodiles, and living in close proximity to wildlife at the famed Australia Zoo. He has never been a dancer by training, yet his natural charisma and love for performance propelled him into the spotlight of a show that celebrates movement and storytelling.
Irwin’s first brush with the world of dance came through his sister, who had already made a name for herself on the same platform. Watching her perform, he was struck by the power of dance to convey emotion and connect with audiences. “I watched her love it, and I thought, ‘Wow, maybe this is possible,’” he told the magazine. That thought became a reality when he auditioned for the 34th season of DWTS, ultimately winning the competition with partner Witney Carson in 2025.
His victory was a turning point, not just for his career but for his ability to reach new audiences. As a conservationist and environmental advocate, Irwin saw the platform as a way to bring his message to rooms that had never heard it before. The experience also allowed him to stay part of a community that felt like family, a sentiment he described as “so meaningful.”
The Birth of “The Next Pro”
Following his triumph on DWTS, Irwin was offered a role that would redefine his relationship with the show: hosting a brand‑new spinoff, The Next Pro. The series, set to premiere this summer before the start of DWTS season 35, is designed to discover the next professional dancer who will join the main broadcast. Irwin’s transition from contestant to host was described by him as a surreal journey, one that blurred the lines between his love for wildlife and his newfound passion for dance.
In the interview, Irwin explained that the spinoff is an opportunity to “bring my message to rooms that had never really been in.” By blending his conservation work with the excitement of dance, he hopes to inspire viewers to care about the planet while enjoying the thrill of competition.
Why the Shirtless Gags Matter
Irwin’s playful reference to the shirtless moments on DWTS is more than a joke; it reflects a broader cultural trend where audiences crave authenticity and vulnerability. The show’s producers have long known that a well‑timed reveal can become a viral moment, and Irwin’s willingness to embrace the spotlight has only amplified that effect.
He also acknowledged that the show’s format, which often pushes contestants to showcase their best physical attributes, can be both empowering and challenging. By openly discussing the pressure to “take my clothes off,” Irwin invites viewers to consider the balance between performance and personal comfort.
Key Takeaways
- Robert Irwin
InfluencerBlogger
