Robert Irwin Shares the Heartfelt Reason Behind His Two “Good Luck Charms” on Dancing With The Stars

Robert Irwin has revealed the deeply personal meaning behind two items he brings with him to every Dancing With The Stars performance. The 21-year-old opened up ahead of this week’s episode, explaining that his cherished “good luck charms” are both connected to his late father, Steve Irwin.

The Wildlife Warrior has frequently been seen wearing a blue shirt during rehearsals, a detail noticed by many fans online. Along with the shirt, he also wears a gold ring—two sentimental pieces that help him stay “close to home” and remind him of what truly matters.

“This is my dad’s shirt. I was going through his things and found it—completely tattered, full of holes, with missing buttons—so I had it repaired,” Robert shared.

“I love that it still looks and feels like him.”

Robert chose to keep some of the worn areas untouched, believing that every tear “tells another story.”

“This shirt definitely saw a lot… I guess it’s a good example of how Dad lived his life—at a hundred per cent,” he added.

He wears the shirt every Tuesday, on show days, during the early morning rehearsals before getting into costume.

“Before you see my dance in full wardrobe, I’ve always done that dance, at least once, in Dad’s shirt,” he said. “It keeps me close to home, close to him. It feels like a big hug every time I put it on.”

Robert added that every moment in the ballroom feels like he is representing not only himself, but also his message, his father’s legacy, and his family.

“It is such an honour to get to do that.”

The Meaning Behind Robert’s Gold Ring

Robert also revealed that he wears a gold ring for every live show, a piece of jewelry he describes as “really, really special.” Its significance ties back to his childhood, his father, and the place he calls home.

While cleaning Steve Irwin’s office recently, Robert found a set of keys to his childhood house. He decided to melt them down and transform them into a ring, engraving it with the number 1638.

“Australia Zoo—my home—is at 1638 Steve Irwin Way. I’ve been putting the ring on every Tuesday morning for the live taping,” he explained.

“It’s the most beautiful experience. In some way, I want him to be part of it. This whole journey has changed my life, and I know I wouldn’t be here without him and the legacy I get to continue.”

As he approaches the end of the competition, Robert expressed gratitude for being able to represent the work his parents started.

“I’m just so grateful that I’m heading into the home stretch. This is it.”

He also said that he feels honoured each week to carry on the mission his parents devoted their lives to.

Family and Fans Respond

Robert’s mother, Terri Irwin, left a heartfelt message: “This is incredibly special and meaningful. Your dad would be chuffed for sure. He loved you so much.”

Fans also shared their support. One wrote, “Just beautiful! He’s with you every step of the way in this life.” Another added, “Love your heart, you’re a good young man.”