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Prince William made an unexpected appearance during the 20th anniversary special of Dancing With the Stars on November 11, joining the show through a video message to cheer on Robert Irwin and his dance partner, Witney Carson.
The Prince of Wales, who was unable to meet Irwin in person at the Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony in Rio de Janeiro earlier that week, joined the show virtually to share his encouragement. "We're missing you, Robert. Whilst your twinkle toes are going off elsewhere, I need you down here," William said in the pre-recorded message. Turning to Carson, he added, "You need to get him in as much glitter as you can."
The unexpected royal appearance left Carson starstruck. "I can't believe he just said my name!" she exclaimed after the clip played.
William also told the duo, "Guys, you've got a seriously good chance of winning it. So, just the best of luck on the show."
During rehearsals, 21-year-old Irwin mentioned that he was unable to attend the Earthshot Prize ceremony because he was still taking part in DWTS. "We are doing this dance for Bindi, and we are doing this dance for Prince William, so let's not mess this up!" he declared before their performance.
Robert and Witney performed a foxtrot to Leona Lewis' "Footprints in the Sand," a piece that holds deep sentimental value for the Irwin family. The track was previously used by Bindi Irwin in her 2015 season, when she dedicated her performance to their late father, Steve Irwin.
Following the heartfelt routine, a surprise video of Steve Irwin played across the ballroom floor, moving Robert to tears as Bindi and Witney wrapped him in an emotional embrace. Judge Derek Hough praised the emotional routine, saying, "You're not just walking the path that he set, my friend, you are dancing it—and you're dancing it beautifully."
The judges awarded the pair a perfect score of 40, the first of the season.
