Robert Irwin brought Dancing With the Stars’ judges and fans to tears within the first few minutes of his emotional dance during Dedication Night.

Dedications Night saw the remaining contestants perform routines dedicated to special people in their lives. Season 34’s installement was no less emotional, but for the first time ever, the people who were honored accompanied the contestants on the dance floor.

During rehearsals for the hit ABC dancing competition show, the wildlife conservationist began to tear up while explaining to partner Witney Carson why he was dedicating his dance to his mother, Terri Irwin, an “absolute hero” who raised him and his sister, Bindi, after their father Steve Irwin died.

“I’ve never been able to capture the feeling of gratitude that I feel for her,” he admitted. “And at every milestone, I just wish that my dad was there. She was there and that was enough.”

When Terri joined the pair at rehearsal, she joked, “I’m ready to cry.”

DWTS’ Robert Irwin brought tears to judges and fans’ eyes during Dedication Night (Image: ABC)

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In the ballroom, Robert and Witney danced a contemporary routine to You’ll Be in My Heart by Phil Collins. At the very end, Terri made a brief appearance, wrapping her arms around her son as they cried together.

“He’s looking at you kid and he’s smiling,” said a teary eyed Bruno Tonioli of Steve. Robert then walked up to hug Bruno.

Carrie Ann Inaba said if she ever had kids, she’d want them to be like Robert. “You’re always connecting with the audience,” the judge said to Robert. “It was really beautiful.”

Derek Hough fought back tears while saying, “I’m really proud of you. You’ve become such an amazing man. The world needs the Irwin family.”

Guest judge Kym Johnson said it “got her” when Terri joined Robert on the ballroom floor. “I love him so much,” said Terri, adding, “I’m so blessed to be his mom.”

DWTS’ Robert Irwin honored his mother Terri Irwin during Dedication Night (Image: ABC)

As Robert and Witney joined Julianne, she gave them tissues. “This is for all the moms who don’t get the recognition they deserve,” Robert said before adding that his dance was also for all of the single moms out there and the people we’ve lost. “Go call your mom and tell her that you love her.”

Julianne replied, “I’m calling my mom right after this,” before asking the judges to submit their scores. Robert and Witney scored a 35 out of 40.

When fans saw Robert crying during rehearsals, they couldn’t help but express their sadness, with one person taking to Reddit to cry, “ROBERT DON’T MAKE ME CRY.”

Another added, “Omg if he’s already crying, this will be tough,” as a third agreed, “I can’t even get through this intro package rn.”

A fourth pointed out, “robert truly respects women, he’s so lovely,” as a fifth yelled, “NOT YET OH MY GOD,” as Robert cried with his partner.

A sixth emotional added, “omg robert my pookie,” as another penned, “He looks like he’s gonna cry. Omg poor thing.”

Yet another added to the Reddit discussion board, “terri deserves all the love and respect in the world she’s incredible.”

On X, fans were similarly emotional with one person writing, “Been a long time since I cried at dancing with the stars but here we are!!! Robert Irwin, the man you are!!”

Another added, “The moment when Robert Irwin and his mom, Terri, danced together on Dancing with the Stars. Perfection.”

Fans took to social media to express that Dedication Night would be incredibly emotional only minutes into the episode.

On X, formerly Twitter, one person wrote, “alright chat dancing with the stars might make me cry tonight.”

Another said, “Dancing With The Stars will make me bawl tonight,” as a third added, “let me get my tissues ready.” A fourth penned, “oh im gonna be a sobbing mess,” as a fifth commented, “I’m already tearing up.”