This interaction not only highlights the growing friendship between the British royal family and the Irwins, but also underscores their shared dedication to conservation, strengthened by their collaboration around the Earthshot Prize.
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A victory that resonates beyond television
Robert Irwin, Australian zookeeper and Earthshot Prize ambassador, triumphed in “Dancing with the Stars” alongside professional dancer Witney Carson in the finale aired on November 25. The Len Goodman Mirrorball trophy now joins the family accolades, nearly a decade after Robert’s sister, Bindi Irwin, claimed her own win. This success unfolded not only on the dance floor but also attracted international interest due to the Irwin family’s connection with the British royals.
Following the finale, Robert took to Instagram to share his joy and gratitude, notably declaring, “dreams do come true”. Prince William and Kate Middleton responded directly to this achievement via their official social media account: their comment, complete with an emoji, emphasized both their support and the amicable nature of their relationship with Robert.
Royal support and a family story
The public message from the royal couple was anything but trivial. Robert Irwin, as an ambassador for the Earthshot Prize, works regularly alongside the Prince of Wales to promote conservation initiatives. Earlier in the television season, William had sent Robert a video message, personally encouraging him and lightheartedly referencing their shared environmental efforts. This message already pointed to the closeness between the young Australian and the royals, as well as their united passion for an important cause.
Originally scheduled to travel to the Earthshot Prize in Brazil, Robert had to choose to instead participate in the “Dancing with the Stars” finale held at the same time. This decision reflects not only his commitment to environmental advocacy but also his family representation on national television. This season was also marked by Bindi Irwin’s presence in the audience supporting her brother; herself a winner of the show a decade ago, she and Robert share a deep commitment to conservation, continuing the legacy of their father, Steve Irwin.
Moreover, Prince William used the Steve Irwin Gala 2025 in Brisbane as an opportunity to share a video tribute to Steve Irwin, calling for the continued fight for conservation. He praised Robert as a “global ambassador” for the environment and remarked that talent on the dance floor “clearly runs in the family”, highlighting the Irwin siblings' twin achievements in “Dancing with the Stars.”
Media reach and conservation impact
The royal congratulations amplified the already considerable media attention surrounding Robert Irwin, while also giving greater visibility to the causes championed by the family. Thanks to the reach provided by the show and royal endorsement, the Irwins’ efforts on behalf of wildlife and species preservation have gained increased international exposure. The synergy between media recognition and promotion of environmental initiatives is exemplified through Robert Irwin’s simultaneous involvement in both the televised competition and the Earthshot Prize influence network.
The benefits also extend to the ongoing message advanced by the Irwin family across generations. Robert has often reminded media that Bindi’s victory ten years ago helped raise the profile of their charity, Australia Zoo, as well as the Wildlife Warriors movement. Onstage, surrounded by loved ones and fellow contestants—including Alix Earle, Jordan Chiles, Dylan Efron, and Elaine Hendrix—Robert was buoyed, both literally and figuratively, by family and a determined support network. Despite suffering a rib injury during the season, this victory adds to a growing list of artistic and philanthropic accomplishments for the Irwin siblings.
Strengthened prospects for conservation causes
Following the season, Robert Irwin’s win extends far beyond entertainment. It demonstrates the ability of committed public figures to rally a broad audience around conservation issues, especially when openly supported by influential institutions like the British royal family. This burgeoning partnership between the Irwins and the royal couple suggests that further collaboration could promote, on a global scale, the values of preservation and sustainable development to which they are collectively dedicated.
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William and Kate send a sweet message to Robert Irwin after his Dancing with the Stars win
Prince William and Kate Middleton celebrate Robert Irwin’s ‘DWTS’ win with sweet message
