Robert Irwin’s Adorable Gift for Witney Carson Melts ‘DWTS’ Fans; What He Named After Her Will Warm Your Heart

“Dancing with the Stars” Season 34 contestant Robert Irwin surprised his partner, Witney Carson, with one of the sweetest gifts fans have seen this season. The 21-year-old wildlife conservationist honored Carson by making her an honorary Irwin family member — and naming a baby wallaby after her. The heartfelt gesture instantly melted DWTS fans across social media.

The emotional moment was shared in a November 7 video posted on the official Australia Zoo Instagram page, run by the Irwin family. Irwin presented Carson with her very own khaki zoo uniform and revealed the new baby wallaby named “Witney,” leaving the professional dancer in shock and tears of joy.

Robert Irwin Makes Witney Carson an Honorary Irwin Family Member

In the now-viral video, Robert Irwin proudly announced that Witney Carson had become an “honorary Irwin,” a rare title that symbolizes family connection and respect in the Irwin household. Carson, smiling widely, said she was “so honored” to receive the title. But the surprises didn’t stop there.

Irwin then handed Carson her very own Australia Zoo khaki uniform top — identical to those worn by the Irwin family. He told her it represented her spirit, kindness, and teamwork throughout the competition. The moment already had fans emotional, but Irwin added one more twist: a newborn wallaby at the zoo had been named “Witney” in her honor.

The zoo’s caption read, “Meet Witney the wallaby! Robert named this little one after his Dancing with the Stars dance partner, and she’s already hopping circles around us with her moves!” The post quickly gathered thousands of likes and comments from DWTS viewers and wildlife fans alike.

Even the official “Dancing with the Stars” account joined in, commenting, “Not to be dramatic but we LOVE Witney the wallaby.” The Irwin family’s Wildlife Warriors Foundation added, “We love Witney & Witney!”
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Fans Celebrate the Sweet Friendship Between Robert and Witney

The moment highlighted the genuine friendship between Irwin and Carson, whose bond has become a bright spot in Season 34. Many fans commented that the duo shared “big sibling energy,” with Irwin often showering Carson’s children, Leo and Jet, with gifts and affection. Earlier this season, he sent two giant stuffed crocodiles to her sons, continuing his streak of thoughtful gestures.

Longtime fans also drew parallels to Irwin’s sister, Bindi Irwin, who won Season 21 of DWTS alongside Derek Hough. After their win, Hough famously visited Bindi in Australia, leading many to hope that Carson and her family will soon make their own trip “down under” to meet baby Witney the wallaby in person.

How Robert Irwin and Witney Carson Became a Fan-Favorite Duo

Throughout Season 34, Robert Irwin and Witney Carson have captured fans’ hearts with their natural chemistry and lighthearted partnership. Carson, a seasoned pro and former champion, has praised Irwin for his work ethic, humility, and infectious positivity on and off the dance floor.

As the season edges toward its finale, fans say their connection embodies the show’s core message — joy, growth, and genuine human connection. Social media posts have flooded with comments like “This is the sweetest partnership ever” and “Robert’s kindness is unmatched.”

Whether or not they take home the mirrorball trophy, Robert Irwin and Witney Carson have already won over the hearts of viewers — and thanks to one adorable baby wallaby, their friendship is forever immortalized in Australia.