Xochitl Gomez made sure Robert Irwin felt supported heading into the “Dancing with the Stars” finale. The actress and former DWTS winner stopped by to see him backstage on Tuesday, a kind gesture that also stirred fresh curiosity about whether their close connection is turning into something more.

Gomez Visits Robert Irwin Backstage Before the Finale

Photos from the DWTS lot, as published by TMZ, show Gomez greeting Irwin with a side hug, chatting easily, and handing him a bouquet. The TMZ report also claims that people on set also said she spent time with his family backstage.

The visit came at a high-stakes moment for Irwin, who is one of four finalists still in the hunt for the Mirrorball Trophy.

Chadwick Boseman honored with posthumous Hollywood star 

The sighting comes after weeks of speculation surrounding Irwin and Gomez. The duo first raised eyebrows earlier this season when they performed an energetic jive together during the show’s 20th anniversary celebration.

Their chemistry only intensified interest in a possible romance.

Play

Irwin kept things playful when asked by TMZ about Gomez during a recent practice session, declining to confirm or shut down the rumors.

What Robert Said About His Bond With Gomez After Their Viral Jive

DisneyDANCING WITH THE STARS – “20th Birthday Party”
In an interview with Deadline earlier this season, Irwin praised Gomez for the energy she brought to their jive routine. “The thing that Xochitl brings is so much energy and fun and passion,” he said. “It feels like we’re so on the same wavelength when it comes to approaching the jive.”

Witney Carson, Irwin’s pro partner, also commented on the dynamic. “I never felt more old than when they were in the studio,” she joked. “There were just lots of giggles and lots of I don’t even know. But they are extremely hard workers and they got the job done.”

Irwin echoed the sentiment again after their performance. “Oh my gosh, we had the best time,” he told TMZ. “That dance was so much fun.” He added that Gomez made the relay portion feel effortless. “She’s the best, it’s been really, really great.”

Gomez’s Rising Career and Her New Role in ‘Boston Blue‘

GettyXochitl Gomez attends Gold Gala 2024
Just like Robert, who has been claimed to be the frontrunner to win the mirrorball trophy, Gomez is also in the middle of a major career upswing.

The actress, best known for playing America Chavez in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” is set to join “Boston Blue,” the upcoming spinoff of “Blue Bloods.”

Reports say she will play Penny, a sharp-witted character connected to Sean Reagan’s storyline.
GettyXochitl Gomez attends Netflix’s “Cobra Kai” Series Finale Premiere
Her arrival is expected to stir up new tension for Sean, Danny, and Lena as the series unfolds.

Her growing résumé includes roles in “Boob Sweat,” “Shadow Wolves,” “Ursa Major” and “Dog Years.” She has voiced characters in “Cartoonified! With Phineas and Ferb” and will voice Gabby in “The Cat in the Hat.”

Gomez trained at the Sundance Directors Lab and worked closely with Anthony Mackie early in her career, even calling him first when she booked her Marvel role.

As she steps into her next project and continues to cheer on Irwin, her interest in their connection only intensifies. Whether her backstage visit signals a new romance or a close friendship, both stars looked relaxed and at ease as Irwin headed into the biggest night of his season.