EXCLUSIVE: Robert Irwin Addresses “Stripper” Talk After RAUNCHY DWTS Performance That Sent Social Media Into Meltdown
Robert Irwin is drawing a line following a rather racy performance on Dancing With the Stars.
The 21-year-old DWTS contestant set social media on fire last week after ripping off his shirt mid-performance.
Despite new attention from adult entertainment brands, Irwin says the viral moment won’t change his focus. The moment came as Lauren Jauregui spoke out about her elimination.
“That is true. The Aussie boys too. Thunder Down Under also reached out,” Irwin said in an interview with Entertainment Tonight when asked about offers to host adult strip shows.
“Mate, more power to them. Not for me. Not right now. I will take the shirt off every now and again, but I’m going to draw the line there.”
The shirtless moment came during a salsa number with his partner Witney Carson, 31, set to Tommy Richman’s 2024 hit Million Dollar Baby.
The TikTok-themed routine opened with Carson on Irwin’s shoulders before the two launched into a fast-paced routine.
Irwin later tore off his shirt, showing off a chiseled six-pack as the crowd erupted.
“Are you kidding me? Did you?”
Carson said when hearing the rumor about Chippendales and Thunder Down Under during the interview.
Irwin laughed off the idea, saying the attention had been flattering but not his style.
With a quick shimmy, he added, “Hips don’t lie.”
Judge Carrie Ann Inaba reacted with shock during the live taping.
“Robert Irwin is all grown up, wow,” she said. “You’re making me feel like a grandmother. Put your shirt back on. Great performance.”
Bruno Tonioli compared Irwin’s physique to another Australian star.
“You’re giving Hemsworth energy,” he said.
However, not all the judges were sold.
Derek Hough, 40, praised Irwin’s charisma but pointed to areas for improvement.
“You’re strong, assertive, a great performer, but I wasn’t fooled by them abs,” he said. The comment drew boos from the audience.
The pair scored 22 points for the routine, placing them third for the night.
