Robert Irwin and his mother Terri shared a heartfelt moment on “Dancing With the Stars” that left everyone in tears during the show’s Dedication Night on October 14.
The 21-year-old wildlife conservationist chose to honor his mother with a contemporary dance to Phil Collins’ ‘You’ll Be In My Heart.’ He performed with his professional partner Witney Carson, moving together in perfect harmony across the dance floor.
The emotions were clear on everyone’s faces as they watched. When the music reached its end, Carson stepped away and Terri appeared in a yellow dress. She took her son’s hand as he twirled her gently. They finished by holding each other close, both with tears in their eyes.
Before the performance, Robert spoke about losing his father Steve Irwin. Steve died at 44 when a stingray’s barb pierced his chest while he was filming underwater. Robert was almost three years old when it happened.
“I was 2 when I lost dad,” Robert said, getting emotional. He explained he could never find the right words to thank his mother for everything she’s done. “I just wish that my dad was there, but she was there — and that was enough.”
Terri also shared her feelings about that difficult time. “After we lost Steve it was difficult to smile again, for quite a while,” she said. But her children gave her a reason to keep going. “I could get up every morning. So every day I’m a proud mama.”
The judges couldn’t hold back their tears. They gave Robert and Witney 35 out of 40 points for their dance. But the score wasn’t what mattered most that night.
WATCH: Robert Irwin’s Performance on Dancing With the Stars
After the dance, Robert shared a message for everyone watching: “This dance is for my mom. It’s for all of the moms out there who don’t get the recognition they deserve. This is for the single parents who work so hard every day to put one foot in front of the other. It’s for anyone who’s lost someone who feels lost. Keep going. And if you can go call your mom and tell her that you love her.”
WATCH: Robert Irwin’s Touching Tribute to His Mother on Dancing With the Stars
