Robert Irwin, the 22-year-old wildlife conservationist, became visibly emotional on "Dancing With The Stars: The Next Pro" while comforting contestant Allen Genkin, who was preparing a deeply personal rumba dedicated to his late mother. Genkin's mother passed away when he was 15.
Irwin, who appeared on the US version of the show himself, shared his own experiences with loss. He recalled a dedication dance he performed for his mother on the show, stating, "As soon as that music stopped, my mum joined me on stage... I completely broke down." He offered words of comfort to Genkin, acknowledging the profound difficulty of facing such a performance.
"I understand what it's like to lose someone," Irwin told Genkin. "But movement and dance, that is the thing that gives you the ability to face that."
Genkin expressed that the performance would be the closest he had felt to his mother since her passing. Irwin responded with a hug and the reassurance, "I'll be right there with you," agreeing with Genkin that "time does not heal all wounds."
The exchange resonated with viewers on social media, who praised Irwin's kindness and empathy. "See this is a good reason why Robert Irwin is the sweetest, kindest guy. He knows what it feels like to lose someone in your life and how hard it is," one commenter wrote.
Speaking to People, Genkin described Irwin as a "calming presence" throughout the competition. "It felt very comforting and very calm and peaceful," he said. "To be honest with you, it was very emotional. It was very emotional being around Robert throughout the whole process because he told me his story."
Despite Irwin being 14 years older, Genkin felt a familial connection with him. Irwin's empathy stems from the loss of his father, Steve Irwin, the "Crocodile Hunter," who died in 2006 after being pierced by a stingray barb. Last year, Robert Irwin also performed a dedication dance to his mother, Terri Irwin, on "Dancing With The Stars," breaking down in tears at the end of the performance.