It isn’t what you think.

(Photography: Wildlifewarriors.org.au | @robertirwinphotography)

Robert Irwin is following in the footsteps of his sister, Bindi Irwin, joining the cast of the US Dancing with the Stars. He’s already the national icon of Australia and a Wildlife Warrior, and now he’s going to dance his way into the hearts of Americans while fulfilling the dream he’s had for the past 10 years.

Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) is a popular franchise across the world, and we’ve got our very own version in Australia. But there’s one massive difference.

In Australia, the celebrities who participate in the show win a trophy and the title, but they also nominate a charity and if they win, their charity will receive a generous donation. But the format for the US doesn’t follow the same structure.

There are no donations in the US DWTS; the celebrities just receive a mirrorball trophy and the title of winner.

Instead, the stars are paid for the appearance. The longer they stay in the comp, the more they earn. Multiple sources and Variety stated they receive an initial payment of $125,000 USD during the rehearsal period and their first two weeks on the show.

If they make it to the third week, they will then earn bonuses and additional fees every week they remain in the competition. Some sources revealed that in past seasons, celebrities have earned $345,000 USD, with Bindi earning a whopping $350,000 USD for her appearance.

Bindi won the trophy in season 21 alongside professional dancer Derek Hough. Robert has been paired up with professional dancer, Whitney Carson and after their first dance, things are looking really positive.

Fans have filled the comments section of his DWTS posts with endless praise, saying he deserves the win and they’re only one episode in.

“Just give him the award already. He’s won all of our hearts through and through. His dad would be so proud of what an amazing human being he’s grown up to be. 🔥🔥🔥” one comment said.

Whether Robert wins or not, we’re excited to see every single performance on DWTS, and while there is no donation to a charity from the show, we know that the Irwin family’s Wildlife Warrior organisation is close to his heart.

In case you need a reminder on all the incredible things they do, visit their website or keep reading below for just a few of our favourite projects.

3 conservation projects by Wildlife Warriors

(Photography: Wildlifewarriors.org.au)

01

Wildlife rescues

In today’s society, our wildlife face threats every day. In order to survive – find food, new habitat, or mate – many animals need to cross roads, encounter domestic animals or escape unfailiar areas. Australia Zoo are on the road 7 days a week responding to wildlife emergencies. From rescuing sea turtles in the ocean to koalas in the trees, they’re always ready to help.

(Photography: Wildlifewarriors.org.au)

02

Wildlife hospital

Wildlife are victims to injury and devastation daily, from road traffic to domestic animal attacks and land clearing. Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital gives injured wildlife a second chance. Over a 12 month period, between 9,000 and 10,000 animals are brought to the hospital for lifesaving treatment.

(Photography: Wildlifewarriors.org.au)

03

Crocodile research

Crocodiles are one of the oldest living species on the planet, having outlived dinosaurs and thrived through some of the harshest conditions imaginable, but there is still so much to learn about them. Steve Irwin joined forces with the University of Queensland and together, they began tracking crocodiles to learn about their movements and more.

We have reached out to Robert Irwin for comment but are yet to hear back.