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The Prince and Princess of Wales attending the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall, London. Picture date: Wednesday November 19, 2025

The Prince and Princess of Wales had some kind words for Robert Irwin (Credit: Jonathan Buckmaster/Daily Express/PA Wire)

Prince William and Kate Middleton's four-word message for DWTS hero Robert Irwin

ByBangShowbiz and Liam Ryder

The Prince and Princess of Wales have congratulated Robert Irwin on his Dancing With the Stars win.

The 21-year-old wildlife expert and his professional partner Witney Carson claimed the Mirrorball Trophy earlier this week, with Prince William and his wife Catherine amongst those celebrating his dancing achievements. Robert posted a reel capturing his winning moment on Instagram with the caption: "Dreams do come true [heart emoji]."

The Royal couple's account responded: "Congratulations Robert and Witney! [stars and mirrorball emoji] (sic)".

It followed a surprise appearance from Prince William on the show earlier this month, when he delivered a video message of encouragement to Robert.

Before taking to the dance floor, Robert had revealed to his sister Bindi Irwin - who triumphed in the 2015 series - that he'd made a significant sacrifice to remain in the competition, as he was scheduled to join the prince at the Earth Shot Prize ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Unfortunately, he couldn't attend because he was still rehearsing for the programme. Robert and Witney then paused their dance rehearsals to take a "special call", and he was stunned when the future monarch came on the line.

He asked William: "How was Rio?". The 43-year-old Royal said it went "really well", and added: "We're missing you."

William then joked: "Whilst your twinkle toes are going off elsewhere, I need you down here." He also told Witney to dress Robert in "as much glitter" as she could, and the professional dancer replied: "Listen, I'm trying."

The Royal finished his call by wishing the duo "best of luck" for the rest of the series, and said they have a "seriously good chance of winning it". An overjoyed Robert collapsed onto a sofa after the call, confessing it meant "the absolute world".

After Robert's success, a number of stars expressed their joy for him online. Ted Lasso and Game of Thrones actress Hannah Waddingham also sent her well wishes.

She wrote: "ROBERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRT! ! ! ! ! YESSSSSSSSSS! It couldn't have gone any other way you've been astonishing the whole run!

"And it couldn't happen to a nicer human.... congratulations my friend... to you and your magnificent partner! (sic)".

Fellow DWTS competitors Lauren Jauregui and Danielle Fishel praised their friend's triumph. The Fifth Harmony vocalist commented: "Congratulations Robert!!!"

Danielle added: "Congratulations my beautiful friend! In awe of you in every way. Loved watching and learning from you all season. [heart emoji] (sic)".