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Robert Irwin Gets a “Crikey!”-Worthy Surprise During DWTS Rehearsal
Los Angeles, CA – It was a day of unexpected delights for wildlife conservationist and “Dancing With the Stars” frontrunner Robert Irwin, as a recent rehearsal for “Wicked Week” took a heartwarming turn. Irwin and his professional partner, Witney Carson, were interrupted by content creator and rug artist Simji, who delivered a unique, handmade gift that left Irwin utterly floored.
Simji had previously met Irwin after a “DWTS” rehearsal, where she expressed her desire to craft a special rug for him. And she certainly delivered!
In a now-viral Instagram clip, Irwin’s excitement was palpable as he greeted Simji, recalling her generous offer. “I’ve been talking about this crocodile rug,” he shared, clearly anticipating the reveal.
With a mischievous grin, Simji asked Irwin to close his eyes before unfurling her creation across the rehearsal floor. His immediate reaction?
“I love this! Absolutely.”
But the full impact hit when he opened his eyes to see the meticulously crafted crocodile rug. “Oh my goodness.
Amazing!” he exclaimed, his shock and delight evident.
The attention to detail in Simji’s artwork truly impressed Irwin, a man who knows his crocodiles. He praised her for capturing the “taper in the jaw,” noting that “the nasal disc is perfect and the yellow, because people forget that crocodiles are actually yellow.” High praise from a true croc expert!
The official “Dancing With the Stars” Instagram account chimed in on the comments, echoing Irwin’s sentiment with a fitting, “Crikey! That’s AMAZING!”
Irwin himself added, “I love it.” Fans were quick to share their admiration, with one commenter penning, “He lowkey seems like the friendliest human on earth, this is so awesome.”
Another added, “Such a wholesome interaction! I love it and the rug looks AMAZING!!!”
while a third concluded, “Robert Irwin just seems like such a wholesome human. I love how excited he was about this rug.”
Irwin Continues Strong Run in “Wicked Week”
As “Dancing With the Stars” dives into its sixth week with “Wicked Week,” Robert Irwin and Witney Carson remain consistent contenders, holding a spot among the top three couples. Their strong judges’ scores and unwavering viewer support have kept them at the forefront of Season 34.
This week’s installment of the competition will immerse couples in the enchanting world of the Broadway musical and movie, “Wicked.” Dancers will perform to the film’s iconic soundtracks within a re-imagined Ozdust Ballroom.
According to a “Dancing With the Stars” press release, Irwin and Carson are set to perform a Jazz routine to “Dancing Through Life,” a track featuring Jonathan Bailey, Ariana Grande, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, and Cynthia Erivo. The magical evening will also include a show-stopping medley of “Wicked” hits, with couples performing gravity-defying routines in various styles, including Argentine Tango, Contemporary, Foxtrot, Jazz, Rumba, and Quickstep.
After no eliminations on “Dedication Night,” the stakes are higher than ever, with two couples facing elimination during the October 21st episode. Will Robert Irwin’s impressive dance moves continue to keep him at the top?
“Dancing With the Stars” airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu.