Robert Irwin, son of the late Steve Irwin, has become a standout contestant on season 34 of 'Dancing with the Stars,' captivating audiences with his charisma and impressive performances.

His recent salsa performance, which included a shirt-ripping move reminiscent of 'Dirty Dancing,' went viral online and drew widespread praise, even though he did not top the leaderboard.

Irwin's energetic dance to a Latin track and his previous high-scoring routines, including a debut jive and a 'Born to be Wild' performance, have established him as a strong contender, with many fans and judges believing he could win the Mirrorball trophy.

Despite some critiques about rigidity, judges have praised his growth and natural talent, with Derek Hough calling his first dance one of the best ever on the show.

Irwin's participation continues his family's legacy on DWTS, following his sister Bindi's victory in season 21, and he is also using his platform to promote wildlife conservation.

His performances, including a provocative shirtless tango, have garnered high praise and significant attention, making him a fan favorite and a potential winner.

Irwin remains a strong contender, with the show's judges and fans noting his potential to win, especially with his partner Witney Carson, who has also previously won the competition.

Carson expressed excitement about working with Irwin and shared on Instagram that they are embarking on a special journey together, with her helping him find his 'inner cool'.

Irwin's debut was highly acclaimed, with judge Derek Hough calling his first dance one of the best on the show, and he has consistently earned high scores, tying for the top spot on the leaderboard multiple times.

Julianne Hough praised Irwin's physique, comparing him to Australian actors Chris and Liam Hemsworth, and highlighted his efforts to promote animal welfare on TikTok, including showcasing his rescue alligator.

Irwin expressed gratitude and enjoyment post-performance, sharing that he had fun showing a more confident side of himself and thanked Carson for her support.

The audience reaction has been overwhelmingly positive across various demographics, with many expressing admiration and excitement, helping Irwin's popularity grow online and within meme culture.