Robert Irwin Shares His Relief After DWTS Win: I Prefer Life in the Bush Over City Living

Robert Irwin in Los Angeles competing on ‘DWTS,’ holding a crocodile at the Australia Zoo.
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Robert Irwin/Instagram; Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty

Robert Irwin Expresses Relief at Leaving Los Angeles After DWTS Win

Robert Irwin shared his satisfaction at departing Los Angeles following his recent victory on Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars. In an interview with The West Australian, Irwin remarked, "Being in L.A. for the last three months has been wonderful, but I am not a city kid. I live out in the bush."

The 22-year-old conservationist is known for his deep connection to the Australian wilderness, a sentiment that has been reinforced by memories of his late father, Steve Irwin. He emphasized the importance of returning to his roots after the ephemeral glamour of Hollywood.

Irwin’s comments come shortly after winning the popular reality competition, which films in the bustling city. Reflecting on his experiences, he expressed joy at returning to his native terrain, stating, "It’s good to be back where there’s a bit of greenery."

Currently, Irwin is engaged in filming a new season of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in South Africa. He indicated his eagerness to embrace a more natural environment, saying, “I couldn’t wait to get here, actually.”

Irwin’s family, including his mother Terri and sister Bindi, continue to embody the mission set forth by Steve Irwin at Australia Zoo, where they focus on wildlife rehabilitation and education about the natural world. Robert previously articulated how his homeland evokes memories of his father, stating, “If Australia were a person, it would be my dad. To love your wildlife, to be passionate, to have that spirit of mateship and camaraderie with everyone. He is just a superhero to me.”

Robert Irwin with a crocodile.

Robert Irwin/Instagram

Irwin, alongside Witney Carson, was awarded the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy during the season finale of DWTS in November, almost a decade after his sister Bindi achieved the same honor. In a post-victory interview, Robert expressed how this achievement is transformative, noting, “This has absolutely changed my life.”

As he continues his journey, the latest season of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! is currently airing in Australia, while the upcoming season of Dancing with the Stars is set to premiere later in 2026.

Robert Irwin competing on ‘DWTS’ in September 2025.

Eric McCandless/Disney