Robert Irwin fulfils Prince William’s request on ‘Dancing with the Stars’

Robert Irwin and his dance partner Witney Carson were not expecting an appearance from Prince William on Dancing With The Stars as they prepared for their performance this week.

Robert, who is a 21-year-old wildlife warrior, is an ambassador to Prince William’s Earthshot Prize, has quickly become a beloved contestant on the show. And as the young Aussie was competing in the show, he missed the fifth Earthshot ceremony in Brazil.

Given their close, association, the future King sent his “best of luck” to Robert and Witney, and declared that the pair had “seriously very good chance of winning”.

Robert seemed to be proving the royal's prediction true as the words of encouragement acted as a lucky charm for the lad. He received his “first perfect score” in the show. 

He took to social media to share a special message for the Prince of Wales expressing his gratitude and excitement.

“This was an incredible surprise to get during our dance rehearsals,” he wrote on social media. “Thank you @princeandprincessofwales for cheering us on and giving us the encouragement to go out and get our first perfect score on @dancingwiththestars!

He also gave a nod to the Prince William’s passion project giving it a special nod. “I wish I could have made it to @earthshotprize in Rio but I was proud to represent the environment in the ballroom!”

Last year, Robert stood beside Prince William in Cape Town for the 2024 ceremony. He had even interviewed the prince during a hike on the Signal Hill, famed for its sweeping views of Cape Town and Table Mountain.

They discussed their shared passion for the environment and spoke to rangers and volunteer conservationists there about the area’s biodiversity.