Australian wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin is fighting through significant physical pain as he prepares for the most important performance of his dancing career in the Dancing With The Stars grand finale.
Pushing Through the Pain
The 21-year-old son of the late Steve Irwin has been battling severe rib pain during the crucial final week of rehearsals, with his professional partner Witney Carson revealing the physical toll the competition has taken on both of them.
"We're kind of falling apart right now," Carson admitted in a TikTok video posted on November 24. "My body is feeling it right now, Robert's body is feeling it right now."
The 32-year-old dancing professional confirmed that Irwin's rib injury has been so severe that it forced last-minute changes to their final routine. "Robert's ribs have been killing him," she said, describing the situation as "the most stressful part" of their preparation.
Final Push Before the Crown
Despite the painful setback, the determined duo refused to scale back their training schedule. Carson revealed they maintained such an intense rehearsal regimen that "they had to kick us out at 9pm" when the studio closed for the night.
Irwin shared his emotional response to concluding their DWTS journey, posting a heartfelt message after their final rehearsal session. "I'm gonna miss this," he wrote on Instagram alongside a video of the pair embracing in the studio. "Thanks for the best memories, Witney. I will cherish this experience forever. One last night to dance — see you tomorrow, America."
Irwin isn't the only contestant feeling the physical strain of the gruelling competition. Influencer Alix Earle has also revealed her own battle wounds, including bruised collarbones and even losing a toenail during practice sessions.
Family Concerns Over Hollywood Lifestyle
The wildlife warrior's rise to fame on the American dancing competition has come with an unexpected development that's causing concern within his family. Sources close to the Irwin family indicate that Robert has fully embraced life in Los Angeles and shows no immediate plans to return to Australia.
According to insiders, his success on DWTS has opened doors to celebrity events and gifts, leading to speculation he might make the United States his home for the foreseeable future. "That has sent his family into a panic," a source revealed.
His sister Bindi Irwin, who famously won Dancing With The Stars in 2015, has relocated to LA with her daughter Grace to support Robert during the competition. However, sources suggest her presence serves a dual purpose. "She went under the guise of helping out with some publicity for him, but the truth is she wants to help reel him back in. She's very worried," the source added.
Family members including Terri Irwin, Bindi, and her husband Chandler Powell have been spotted in Robert's trailer throughout the season, showing their support while likely monitoring his Hollywood transition.
The Season 34 grand finale of Dancing With The Stars is scheduled to air at midday on Wednesday, where Irwin will compete against fellow finalists Alix Earle, Dylan Efron, Jordan Chiles and Elaine Hendrix for the coveted mirrorball trophy.
