Just moments before his triumphant victory on the US version of Dancing With the Stars, wildlife presenter Robert Irwin was spotted in a private backstage meeting with his rumoured girlfriend, actress Xochitl Gomez.
A Supportive Backstage Reunion
The 21-year-old conservationist, affectionately known as the 'wildlife warrior', was seen spending precious time with the 19-year-old American star shortly before his final performance on the hit show. An eyewitness described how Xochitl couldn't wipe the smile from her face as she presented Robert with an enormous bouquet of flowers before pulling him into an affectionate, warm hug.
The pair were observed chatting and laughing together, sharing an easy chemistry that has set rumour mills spinning. The intimate moment was soon joined by Robert's sister, Bindi Irwin, who was seen entering the conversation, adding a family touch to the supportive scene.
Sparking Romance Rumours On Screen
The backstage rendezvous comes after the couple first set tongues wagging earlier this month. During a special episode celebrating the 20th anniversary of Dancing With the Stars, Robert performed an intimate Jive routine with Xochitl. Viewers were quick to comment on their apparent 'chemistry' during the broadcast, noting their comfortable and synchronised performance.
For this special episode, Gomez—who won Season 32 of the show in 2023—stepped in as a guest performer, temporarily replacing Robert's regular professional partner, Witney Carson. Her presence and their visible connection both on and off the dance floor have fuelled speculation about the nature of their relationship.
Robert's Search For Love
This new development is particularly interesting given Robert's recent comments about his personal life. In November of last year, he appeared on Nine's Today show and confessed that there was 'no one special' in his life at that time. This followed his split from long-time sweetheart Rorie Buckey in February 2024.
During the interview, after being dubbed one of Australia's 'most eligible bachelors', a bashful Robert admitted that navigating the dating world was challenging, especially under public scrutiny. He revealed his philosophy on finding a partner, stating, 'I'm one of those people who is kind of gonna let it happen, I'm gonna let that unfold as it will.'
He cited his parents and his sister Bindi's relationship with her husband, Chandler, as his inspiration, adding that his future partner would need to be 'a goer' ready for his unpredictable, travel-filled lifestyle. Robert expressed a clear desire to 'share this wonderful life with someone special'.
His previous relationship with Rorie Buckey, 20, was believed to have started in November 2022, though they only went Instagram official in August 2023. Reports at the time suggested Rorie had completed an Irwin-approved 'wildlife warrior boot camp' and had impressed Robert's mother, Terri, and sister Bindi with her dedication to Australian wildlife, even joining Robert on a crocodile research trip. Their relationship was long-distance, with Robert based at Australia Zoo in Queensland and Rorie living in Perth.
