Terri Irwin's Notable Absence During Son's Reality Show Production
Filming has concluded in Brisbane for Robert Irwin's new television venture, Dancing with the Stars - The Next Pro, a spin-off from the popular reality dance competition. However, production insiders have highlighted a surprising development: the 22-year-old's mother, Terri Irwin, was conspicuously absent throughout the filming process.
A Departure from Past Behaviour
This absence marks a significant shift from Terri's established pattern of involvement in her son's career. The 61-year-old had previously earned a reputation as a 'helicopter mum' for her close proximity to Robert during the filming of the last two seasons of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!, where he served as co-host. Her supportive presence was also documented last year when she enthusiastically cheered him on during his victorious stint on Dancing with the Stars US, which he won with professional partner Witney Carson.
Sources Confirm the No-Show
Exclusive sources speaking to the Daily Mail have confirmed that production personnel 'heard nothing' about Terri visiting the set of the new show. This was the case even though portions of the series were filmed at the Irwin family's Australia Zoo. It is understood that Terri did not appear in any scenes shot at the zoo location.
'Terri's absence has definitely been noticed,' one source close to the production stated. 'Terri hasn't been around during filming at all. It's quite a change from what people are used to.'
Another source, unfamiliar with the specific footage, noted the show is now in a several-week post-production phase. While suggesting a secret cameo was unlikely, they acknowledged, 'There is a chance that Terri might have filmed a cameo [secretly], but that is unlikely.'
Focus on Robert's Star Power and Wholesome Content
Producers are reportedly relying on Robert Irwin's star power to attract viewers, with the young host featuring prominently throughout the series. A source described the show as a 'wholesome family reality series,' dismissing earlier speculation that it would focus on dramatic, Big Brother-style behind-the-scenes conflicts.
The Disney/BBC production features American-based hopefuls auditioning for a role as a professional dancer on DWTS US. 'The dancers will be living together, training together and competing week by week while viewers get to see everything happening behind the scenes,' a production source explained.
Robert's Role and Additional Talent
Sources indicate that Robert himself pitched the idea for the show, capitalising on his growing popularity with American audiences. He officially signed on as host shortly before filming commenced in March, reportedly with his mother's blessing.
Adding to the show's appeal, Robert's former Dancing with the Stars partner, Witney Carson, is also expected to be involved in the production. Her participation is anticipated to bring an international flair and leverage the strong on-screen chemistry the pair demonstrated during their previous successful partnership.
