Overview

• Robert Irwin posted a September 20 Instagram video rehearsing steps at home with his niece Grace, captioning that she is “prepped and ready” for a future season and thanking his family for their support.
• He and pro partner Witney Carson opened season 34 with a jive to “Born to Be Wild,” earning 15 out of 20 and enthusiastic reviews from judges, including high praise from Derek Hough.
• Bindi Irwin, a past mirrorball champion, cheered from the audience during the premiere, with Terri Irwin, Chandler Powell and Grace also present to back Robert.
• Irwin has said he hopes to perform a routine that pays tribute to his late father, Steve Irwin, framing the show as a chance to honor his family’s legacy.
• Robert and Carson are scheduled to return September 23 for One-Hit Wonders Night with a tango to Junior Senior’s “Move Your Feet,” with EntertainmentNow reporting the episode is set to end in a double elimination.