Robert Irwin has been a fan favorite since the very first episode of Dancing With The Stars Season 34, but his latest performance has ignited a firestorm across social media. The 21-year-old Wildlife Warrior, dancing alongside professional partner Witney Carson, performed a cha-cha-cha to Shakira’s Try Everything from Zootopia for Disney Night — a routine that many viewers are now calling “too emotional” and “borderline exploitative.”

While Robert received 22 points from the judges — matching his scores from previous show-stopping routines — fans quickly expressed frustration over the song choice and overall tone of the performance. The cha-cha-cha was also tied to a cross-promotion for his upcoming voice role in Zootopia 2 as a koala named Robert Furwin, which some viewers felt overshadowed the dance itself.

“At what point in the season will Robert and Witney finally get a good song so they can prove they’re real contenders for the mirrorball?” one fan wrote. Another added, “Give Robert better music PLEASE! That man eats but he can’t eat if you don’t give him utensils!” Others were harsher, claiming, “Definitely Robert’s worst dance this season and that makes me sad,” and criticizing the choreography as limited due to the song choice.

Emotional Images Ignite Debate

The controversy escalated after Robert dedicated his upcoming Week 5 routine, Dedication Night, to his late father, Steve Irwin. Fans anticipate an emotional tribute featuring photos and memories of the beloved Crocodile Hunter, but some viewers are already questioning whether using intimate family grief for public performance crosses a line.

“This just pissed me off,” one fan tweeted. “Why can Whitney [Leavitt] get the best song choices but not Robert? Now he’s using Steve’s photos… I don’t know if this is inspiring or just sad.” Others shared concern that the tribute could feel performative: “I love Robert, but is he exploiting his grief for the spotlight?”

Still, many fans expressed excitement for the upcoming routine, anticipating a heart-wrenching yet respectful homage. “Robert better step it up for Dedication Night and have us all crying on the floor,” one wrote. Another added, “If Robert and Bindi dance together next week I will bawl.”

Fan Reaction Splits in Two

The reaction online has been polarized. While some praise Robert for honoring his father in a public and creative way, others insist that the emotional imagery and somber tone of Disney Night pushed the performance too far. Critics argue that while the intent is touching, the execution risks overshadowing the technical merit of the dance itself.

With Week 5 approaching, Robert’s next routine is poised to be the most talked-about performance of the season, combining personal grief, family legacy, and the high-stakes competition of DWTS. Fans will be watching closely to see whether the dedication resonates as a heartfelt tribute or sparks another wave of criticism.