UPDATE: In a shocking revelation, Australian conservationist Robert Irwin disclosed that he “almost died” during a performance on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) on October 23, 2023. The incident occurred during the “Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night” episode, where a terrifying mishap left him gasping for air after inhaling a piece of confetti.
Irwin, who is competing in Season 34 of DWTS, recounted the harrowing moment in a backstage interview with Entertainment Tonight. “I choked on a piece of confetti after the team dance,” he said, visibly shaken. He admitted, “I couldn’t breathe,” highlighting the gravity of the situation.
During the performance, Irwin and his dance partner Whitney Carson executed a team dance, which he described as a near-fatal experience. “I went over to Whitney, and I think they cut away,” he recalled, reenacting the panic of choking. Carson, unaware of the incident at the time, expressed her concern, saying she would have acted as a “shield” to protect him had she known.
Despite the scare, Irwin and Carson delivered a remarkable performance of The White Stripes’ hit “Icky Thump,” earning high praise and nearly perfect scores from the judges. Their resilience showcased the spirit of the competition, even in the face of adversity.
The episode culminated in the elimination of Danielle Fishel, known for her role in Boy Meets World, and her partner Pasha Pashkov, who scored the lowest of the night with a total of 34 out of 40 for their performance of Aerosmith’s “Dream On.”
As the show continues to captivate audiences, Irwin’s near-death experience underscores the intense pressures and unexpected dangers of live performances. Fans are left to wonder how this incident will impact his journey on the dance floor moving forward.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow Irwin’s progress in this thrilling competition.