Robert Irwin talks 'emotional week in rehearsals' ahead of 'DWTS' dedication night
Robert Irwin is opening up about the "emotional week" he's had in rehearsals ahead of Tuesday's "Dancing with the Stars" dedication night.
The wildlife conservationist, who is competing on season 34 of the hit dance competition show, took to Instagram on Monday and shared who he's dedicating his dance to on the next episode.
"I've been thinking about my mum and her strength," he wrote. "I've been reminiscing on the times we've spent as a family and how she has kept my dad part of my life."
He continued, "This dance is for my mum, it's for anyone who's lost someone … and it's for all the strong mothers of the world who deserve our recognition and appreciation."
In his post, Irwin shared a few black and white photos with his pro dance partner, Witney Carson, in the dance studio.
He also shared photos with him and his family when he was younger and a photo of him, his mom Terri Irwin and Carson in the dance studio.
Irwin is the son of the late Steve Irwin, who was known for his work as an environmentalist and for his documentary series, "The Crocodile Hunter." Steve Irwin died in 2006 from an injury caused by a stingray while filming off the coast of Australia.
Since his death, Irwin, along with his mom and sister Bindi Irwin, have continued to honor his legacy. He also works as a zookeeper with his mom and sister at the Australia Zoo.
In April, when it was revealed Irwin would compete on the show, he told "Good Morning America" that he was "dancing for my dad and continuing the legacy that he created."
"That's really at the core of what I do," he added.
"DWTS" returns Tuesday with the 10 remaining couples paying tribute to the influential people in their lives with moving and meaningful performances, according to a description of the episode.
Former "DWTS" pro dancer Kym Johnson will also return to the show as a special guest judge.
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