Robert Irwin is heading back to the ballroom for his next big career move.

After taking home the mirrorball trophy last year on the US version of Dancing With The Stars (DWTS), the popular wildlife conservationist wowed audiences worldwide with his impressive performances.

Now, he’s returning to the DWTS studio, this time not as a contestant but as host of a new spin-off called Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro.

 

Dancing With The Stars pairs celebrities with professional dancers, who teach them routines to perform each week in front of a live audience and millions of viewers at home.

The new spin-off aims to discover the next standout professional dancer to join the show’s line-up, following top dancers as they compete for a coveted spot as a professional on the franchise.

“For the first time in Dancing with the Stars history, the greatest dancers will compete for a spot as the next pro,” Irwin said, in a teaser for the show.

“Let the fiercest dance battle begin.”

Robert Irwin has revealed his huge new gig on US TV.Robert Irwin has revealed his huge new gig on US TV. Credit: Instagram

Dressed in a cream vest and showing off his toned biceps, Irwin shared a series of photos and videos from the promotional trail, alongside his former dance partner, Witney Carson.

“I am so excited to be back with my ballroom family to host this new era of DWTS,” Irwin wrote on Instagram.

“Witney and I took a little detour from the DWTS live tour to make the exciting announcement. And if you wondered what a day in the life on tour looks like — well, this is it!”

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When Irwin competed on DWTS last year, expectations were already high as his sister Bindi won the competition in 2015.

A fan favourite from the outset, Irwin went on to win the 2025 finale, beating gymnast Jordan Chiles and Dylan Efron.

Robert Irwin was supported by his famous family during his time on Dancing With The Stars in the US.Robert Irwin was supported by his famous family during his time on Dancing With The Stars in the US. Credit: Instagram

Despite having no formal dance experience, the 21-year-old consistently impressed judges, earning multiple perfect scores throughout the season.

“I wish he could see it. I really wish he could be here,” Robert said at the time, paying tribute to his late father, Steve Irwin.

“My sister said it best: thank you for changing my life.”