Additional Coverage:
- Prince William makes surprise video call to ‘Dancing with the Stars’ contestant Robert Irwin (foxnews.com)
Prince William Makes Surprise ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Cameo, Cheers on Robert Irwin
In a truly unexpected twist that left both contestants and viewers buzzing, Prince William, the Prince of Wales, made a surprise virtual appearance on “Dancing with the Stars” Tuesday night, offering a royal stamp of approval to contestant Robert Irwin.
Irwin, the 21-year-old conservationist and son of the legendary “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, was mid-show with his dance partner, Witney Carson, when a “special call” popped up on a tablet. A visibly surprised Irwin admitted, “I have absolutely no idea who it is.”
To everyone’s astonishment, it was none other than Prince William himself, calling in to playfully scold Irwin for missing the royal’s Earthshot Prize event in Rio de Janeiro. Irwin, an ambassador for the prestigious environmental award, had to bow out of the event due to his commitment to the popular dance competition.
“We’re missing you, Robert,” the Prince of Wales told Irwin, adding with a chuckle, “Whilst your twinkle toes are going off elsewhere, I need you down here.” William then lightened the mood further, joking to Carson that she needs “to get him in as much glitter as you can.”
The 43-year-old royal also offered words of encouragement, wishing the dancing duo luck and stating they have a “seriously good chance of winning.” A clearly touched Irwin responded, “That means the absolute world. Thank you so much.”
Carson, equally star-struck, exclaimed after the call, “I can’t believe he just said my name!” Irwin, still reeling from the royal endorsement, quickly added, “Let’s not mess this up!”
Irwin has been an ambassador for the Prince’s Earthshot Prize for over a year. The initiative awards grants to individuals and organizations dedicated to finding solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
Irwin and Carson are currently among the seven remaining couples vying for the coveted Mirrorball trophy on the reality ballroom dance show. With a royal blessing now in their corner, their chances might just be getting a princely boost.