Robert Irwin ‘Almost Died’ Live on Dancing with the Stars After Weird On-Stage Accident

For most contestants on Dancing with the Stars, the biggest fears are forgetting choreography or tripping on live television. But for Robert Irwin, it wasn’t missteps or nerves that nearly took him out — it was confetti. Yes, confetti.

The 20-year-old wildlife conservationist and son of the late Steve Irwin has been a standout on Season 34 of DWTS, charming both the judges and viewers with his enthusiasm. But during the show’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Night, things took a dangerous turn that left him gasping for air.

That night, Robert joined Team Kool, dancing to Kool & The Gang’s classic hit Celebration. The high-energy routine, themed around a wild graduation ceremony, scored an impressive 38 out of 40 points, putting the group among the night’s top performers.

But just as the crowd erupted and the confetti began to rain down, Robert’s celebration turned into a near-tragedy.

“I Almost Died Tonight”

After the show, he spoke to Entertainment Tonight about the unexpected mishap.

“Do you want an exclusive?” Robert joked before revealing the shocking moment. “I almost died tonight.”

He went on to explain,

“I choked on a piece of confetti after the team dance.”

His dance partner, Witney Carson, instantly covered her face in disbelief as Robert described what happened in real time.

“Legit, I went over to Witney, and I think they cut away, and I inhaled a piece of confetti. No, I was, I couldn’t breathe,”

he said, gesturing toward his throat.

“I’m not even kidding,”

he added, recalling the terrifying few seconds before he managed to cough it out.

Witney, who has developed a protective big-sister bond with Robert, was stunned by the ordeal.

“I didn’t even know that was happening. I would have been a shield, like this, with the confetti,”

she said, miming how she would’ve blocked it.

“You would’ve!”

Robert replied with a laugh.

Charm, Chemistry, and Courage

Their partnership has become one of the most talked-about duos of the season — not just for their chemistry on the dance floor but also for their lighthearted friendship off it. Witney even admitted in an earlier interview that she keeps a close eye on Robert as fame finds him.

“I feel very protective over him, especially when the DMs get a little crazy,”

she shared.

“I get a little protective.”

Despite the scary moment, Robert bounced back like a pro. He finished the night tied for fourth place, continuing to impress with his charisma and resilience.

Some fans, however, believe the judges have been a bit harsh, especially after what they saw as low scores during “Wicked Night.”

Whether or not he ends up taking home the mirrorball trophy, Robert Irwin has already won over audiences with his charm, humor, and down-to-earth energy — and now, his ability to survive even Dancing with the Stars’ deadliest danger: flying confetti.

Catch Dancing with the Stars Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on ABC and Disney+, with next-day streaming on Hulu.

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