Rylee Arnold Once Dreamed of Partnering with Robert Irwin on DWTS — Now He’s Joining the Show

Robert Irwin Joins ‘Dancing with the Stars’ After Rylee Arnold’s Dream Partnership Manifestation

It looks like the stars have aligned for Dancing with the Stars Season 34—literally! Robert Irwin, 21, the beloved Australian wildlife conservationist and son of the late Steve Irwin, is officially stepping into the ballroom spotlight. The exciting announcement was made during Disney Entertainment Television’s Get Real Event on April 22, 2025.

Fans of the hit ABC dance competition were thrilled to learn that Irwin would be among the celebrities competing for the iconic Mirrorball Trophy this season. His participation is especially exciting for professional dancer Rylee Arnold, 19, who previously shared her hope to partner with Irwin on the Lightweights podcast in September 2024.

“I just had this feeling he’d be my partner someday,” Arnold said during the podcast interview. “People were tagging me in posts about it all the time. It felt like I had somehow put it out into the universe.”

While the official Season 34 partnerships have yet to be confirmed, fans are eager to see if this long-hoped-for duo becomes a reality.

Robert Irwin Fulfills a Family Legacy

At the Get Real Event in Los Angeles, Irwin expressed his excitement about following in the footsteps of his older sister, Bindi Irwin, who won Season 21 of DWTS in 2015. Channeling his signature wildlife charm, Robert appeared at the event shirtless—with a snake draped over his shoulders—and spoke about how long he’s dreamed of this moment.

“I remember watching Bindi dance and thinking, ‘One day, that’ll be me.’ Now here I am, and I couldn’t be more honored,” he shared.

Rylee Arnold’s Journey on DWTS

Rylee Arnold made her Dancing with the Stars pro debut in 2023 with social media star Harry Jowsey. She returned in Season 33, where she partnered with Olympic gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik. The pair brought a mix of athleticism and artistry to the stage, ultimately finishing in fourth place.

“When Stephen was announced, I just knew he’d be a great partner,” Arnold said in an interview. “He brought such fun and energy to the floor.”

Nedoroscik, known for his dominance on the pommel horse, even teased plans to bring some of his gymnastics skills to the dance floor—including backflips and handstands.

What’s Next for Season 34?

While Rylee Arnold and Robert Irwin’s Season 34 pairings are still under wraps, their potential partnership is already making headlines. The full cast reveal is expected soon, and anticipation is running high.

With Robert Irwin’s natural charisma and Rylee Arnold’s growing fan base, this season of Dancing with the Stars could be one for the books.