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When Robert Irwin took to the dance floor for Dancing With the Stars’ 20th anniversary episode, few could have predicted that his high-energy jive with Xochitl Gomez would become one of the season’s most talked-about moments. The two lit up the ballroom together. Their carefree energy and obvious chemistry earned them praise from judges and fans alike. While Irwin nodded to the fun of the dance, he didn’t confirm anything beyond the twirls and footwork. So, is Irwin single, and where does he stand with Gomez? Here’s what to know.

Is Robert Irwin single? What to know about his relationship status

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At 21, Robert Irwin, the wildlife conservationist turned reality TV star, has navigated public interest in his love life with a mix of openness and discretion. His most high-profile relationship was with Rorie Buckey, the niece of actor Heath Ledger. They dated from late 2022, went public mid-2023, and announced their amicable split in February 2024 after about 18 months together.

So, is Irwin single now? It appears so. He spoke to The New York Times about his love life and the challenges he faces while navigating the dating scene.

“Holy moly, that’s so challenging to navigate,” Robert said, according to E! News, adding, “anything you do will be on TikTok the next day.”

Ultimately, Irwin’s main goal is to stay true to himself. This will eventually lead to meeting the right person if he chooses to date in the future.

“I never change what I say, what I do, who I am one bit, wherever I am,” he said, noting that he has “no persona to hide behind.”

“It’s just me, and I stand by who I am,” Irwin continued.

Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez sparked dating rumors on ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Season 34

Since Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez shared a lively jive during the 20th anniversary celebration on Dancing With the Stars Season 34, their on-stage energy and camaraderie sparked immediate speculation that something more might be brewing. The buzz only intensified when Gomez turned up backstage with a bouquet of flowers just before the season finale. She was seen visiting Irwin, chatting with his family, and cheering him on.

So, is anything romantic happening between Irwin and Gomez? Despite the public attention, neither has confirmed a romantic relationship. TMZ caught up with Irwin to ask about a possible budding romance with Gomez, and he wouldn’t give a direct answer.

“Oh my gosh, we had the best time,” Irwin said. “That dance was so much fun. And it was so cool to do two such distinct dances — one that was really slow and heartfelt, and the dance with Xochitl, which was just energy and fun. She’s the best. It’s been really, really great.”

As the reporter pressed for more information, Irwin walked away without answering.

What happened with his relationship with Rorie Buckey?

Rorie Buckey and Robert Irwin were first linked in late 2022, and over the next year, they made their relationship fairly public. The couple attended red carpet events together and shared glimpses of their life on social media. Their relationship drew attention not only because they often traveled together (even attending the 2023 Earthshot Prize Awards in Singapore), but also because Irwin’s family warmly embraced Buckey. Irwin’s sister publicly referred to Buckey as the “sweetest soul, beautiful friend,” according to E! News.

Unfortunately, on Feb. 16, 2024, the pair announced via a joint social media statement that they had decided to part ways. Their message expressed mutual respect and appreciation for the time they spent together.

It’s unclear why the couple went their separate ways. Some fans on Reddit suspect that Buckey and Irwin wanted different futures, and thus broke up. Either way, it appears the decision was amicable.

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