Overview

• Paired with Witney Carson, Irwin closed the premiere with a high-energy jive to Born to Be Wild that drew roaring applause in the ballroom.
• Derek Hough called it “probably the best first dance I have ever seen,” while Bruno Tonioli praised the routine’s precision and showmanship.
• With Carrie Ann Inaba out sick, scores were on a 20-point scale, and Irwin and Carson posted 15/20 to tie Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas for the night’s best.
• Bindi, Terri and 4-year-old Grace cheered from the audience as Irwin credited Carson for his rapid progress, shared that he’s new to dancing, and said he hopes to honor his late father during the season.
• Next week’s episode airs Sept. 23 with no carryover elimination from the premiere and a planned tango to Move Your Feet, as a separate tabloid claim about Australia Zoo finances remains unverified by mainstream outlets.