Robert Irwin Dancing with the Stars journey didn’t end with his November 2025 Mirrorball Trophy win. Fresh off his Season 34 victory with pro partner Witney Carson, the 21-year-old wildlife conservationist is now at the center of exciting hosting rumors for DWTS’s first-ever spinoff series.
As negotiations heat up for Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, fans are buzzing about whether Robert will trade his dancing shoes for a microphone—and what that could mean for the beloved franchise.
The Next Chapter After Winning the Mirrorball Trophy
Robert Irwin made Dancing with the Stars history in November 2025, becoming the youngest male winner at just 21 years old. His victory with professional dancer Witney Carson wasn’t just a personal triumph—it was a family legacy moment. Following in his sister Bindi Irwin’s footsteps (who won Season 21 in 2015), Robert brought the Irwin family’s second Mirrorball Trophy home to Australia Zoo.
But the real story began after the confetti settled. Industry insiders noticed Robert’s natural charisma extended far beyond the ballroom. His infectious personality, quick wit during interviews, and genuine enthusiasm for the DWTS experience caught the attention of ABC executives looking to expand the franchise for the first time in its 20-year history.
The transition from contestant to potential host isn’t unprecedented in reality television, but it’s rare—and Robert’s unique background makes him an intriguing candidate for this groundbreaking role.
Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro – What We Know
ABC and Hulu are developing Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, a spinoff that’s generating serious buzz in the entertainment industry. Set to premiere in Summer 2026, the competition show will feature up-and-coming ballroom dancers living together in a shared house while competing for the ultimate prize: a professional dancer spot on Dancing with the Stars Season 35.
The format takes cues from other successful reality competitions, combining intense dance training with the interpersonal dynamics of contestants living under one roof. Think of it as Big Brother meets ballroom dancing, with career-making stakes.
According to multiple entertainment outlets, Robert Irwin is in active talks to host the series, though ABC hasn’t made official announcements yet. The network is reportedly still negotiating contracts and finalizing the production team.
Mark Ballas and Shirley Ballas are being considered as permanent judges, bringing their decades of ballroom expertise to mentor the next generation. A rotating third judge slot would feature familiar faces from the DWTS family, including potentially Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, or Bruno Tonioli.
What makes this spinoff particularly exciting is its direct connection to the main show—the winner literally becomes a professional dancer on Season 35, making the audition process transparent and the stakes incredibly high for aspiring dancers worldwide.
Why the Wildlife Conservationist Could Be Perfect for the Role
Robert Irwin’s potential as a television host extends far beyond his recent DWTS victory. He’s already proven his hosting chops as the face of “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” in Australia, where his natural charisma and quick thinking under pressure have made him a fan favorite.
His Season 34 journey showcased qualities that make great hosts: authenticity, humor, emotional intelligence, and the ability to connect with both contestants and audiences. Robert’s youth appeal could attract a younger demographic to the DWTS franchise—something ABC is actively pursuing as traditional network television courts streaming-savvy viewers.
Perhaps most importantly, Robert has an authentic connection to the DWTS world. In an interview with E! Online following his win, he expressed genuine interest in staying connected to the show family. “This experience changed my life,” he said. “If there’s a way to continue being part of this incredible community, I’d jump at the chance.”
His television experience, combined with his fresh perspective as a recent winner who understands both the emotional journey and technical challenges contestants face, positions him uniquely to guide aspiring professional dancers through their own transformative experience.
Conservation Work vs Hollywood Opportunities
Despite the Hollywood opportunities knocking, Robert Irwin has been crystal clear about his primary identity. “I’m a zookeeper first,” he’s repeatedly emphasized in interviews, shutting down Bachelor rumors and other reality TV speculation that doesn’t align with his conservation mission.
His commitment to Australia Zoo and the Wildlife Warriors nonprofit founded by his late father, Steve Irwin, remains his life’s central focus. Robert continues his environmental advocacy work, using his growing platform to raise awareness about conservation issues affecting wildlife globally.
However, the DWTS spinoff opportunity might offer a unique balance. A hosting gig filmed during Australia’s winter months (when zoo operations are slower) could allow Robert to expand his television career without abandoning his conservation work. The compressed production schedule typical of reality competition shows—usually 6-8 weeks of intensive filming—makes it logistically feasible for someone with commitments on another continent.
Robert has demonstrated he can successfully balance multiple responsibilities. Throughout his DWTS journey, he maintained his zoo work through video calls and strategic scheduling, proving that dedication to conservation and pursuing other passions aren’t mutually exclusive.
The Path Forward
Nothing is officially confirmed yet—deals are still being negotiated, and ABC remains tight-lipped about Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro details. The network is expanding the franchise for the first time in two decades, and they’re taking their time to get it right.
What’s undeniable is Robert Irwin’s star power. Whether he ultimately hosts the spinoff or remains connected to DWTS in another capacity, his Mirrorball Trophy win and the genuine relationships he formed have secured his place in the show’s legacy. Fans worldwide are watching closely, eager to see what comes next for the young star who brought wildlife conservation values to the ballroom and won America’s heart in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Robert Irwin win Dancing with the Stars Season 34?
Yes, Robert Irwin won Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars in November 2025 with professional partner Witney Carson, becoming the youngest male winner at 21.
What is Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro about?
Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro is a spinoff where up-and-coming dancers compete while living together. The winner earns a professional dancer spot on DWTS Season 35.
Is Robert Irwin confirmed as the spinoff host?
No, while Robert Irwin is reportedly in talks to host, ABC hasn’t made any official announcements yet, as negotiations are still ongoing.
When will the DWTS spinoff air?
Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro is scheduled to premiere in Summer 2026 on ABC and Hulu.
Will hosting interfere with Robert’s conservation work?
Robert maintains his primary identity as a zookeeper and conservationist. The compressed filming schedule could allow him to balance both his television commitments and his wildlife conservation work.
