Animal Conservationist Robert Irwin Shocks DWTS Judges With Shirtless Salsa

In a surprising turn of events on the first-ever TikTok night of Dancing With the Stars, contestant Robert Irwin has left the judges and audience in awe with his shirtless salsa performance. Irwin, an animal conservationist and the son of the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, has become an early favorite on the show, following in the footsteps of his sister Bindi, who won season 21 of DWTS.

During his dance with partner Witney Carson to the song "Million Dollar Baby" by Tommy Richman, Irwin stunned the judges by ripping off his shirt in the middle of the routine, exposing his toned abs. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba, visibly flustered, proclaimed, "Robert Irwin is all grown up. You're making me feel like a grandmother. I'm like, 'Put a shirt on!'" Fellow judge Derek Hough, however, focused more on the technical aspects, noting that the performance was "rigid" and "stiff for salsa."

In the rehearsal package, Irwin used the opportunity to showcase his efforts to promote animal welfare on TikTok, even introducing Carson to one of the alligators he had rescued. This unique blend of entertainment and conservation has resonated with the audience, who booed Hough's critique, prompting Inaba to defend him.

Despite the mixed reviews, Irwin and Carson earned the highest score of the night, tying with gymnast Jordan Chiles and pro Ezra Sosa for the top spot on the leaderboard. Cohost Julianne Hough even likened Irwin to fellow Australians Chris and Liam Hemsworth, further adding to the hype surrounding the young conservationist's performance.