Robert Irwin sparked romance rumors with Xochitl Gomez on Nov. 11, 2025. The 21-year-old Australian conservationist and the 19-year-old Marvel star enjoyed secret dinner dates. Their on-screen chemistry took the internet by storm during their DWTS jive performance. Now insiders reveal they’ve been seeing each other behind the scenes.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Robert Irwin, 21, is competing on DWTS Season 34 with partner Witney Carson.
- Xochitl Gomez, 19, won DWTS Season 32 in 2023 with Val Chmerkovskiy.
- The pair performed together on the show’s 20th anniversary special on Nov. 11.
- Insiders say they’ve been on dinner dates and spending significant time together.
- The DWTS Season 34 finale airs Nov. 25.
What Happened on DWTS?
The television moment caught everyone’s attention last week. Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez partnered for a special performance during the show’s 20th anniversary celebration. The pair danced a high-energy jive together on stage. Their performance sparked immediate speculation about a potential off-screen romance.
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Robert told Deadline in an interview about their on-stage performance. “The thing that Xochitl brings is so much energy and fun and passion,” he explained to Deadline. “It feels like we’re so on the same wavelength when it comes to approaching the jive.” Their evident connection during rehearsals and the actual performance resonated with fans.
“They seem like lifelong best friends, but there is for sure some flirting going on there.”
The pair’s pro partner Witney Carson praised their chemistry on set after the performance. Fans on social media called their connection undeniable and genuine. Robert initially didn’t confirm or deny the dating rumors when asked by media.
Secret Dinner Dates and Backstage Connection
An exclusive report from The U.S. Sun revealed shocking details about their relationship development. Sources close to the production confirmed the pair has been seeing each other. “Robert and Xochitl have been spending a lot of time together since they performed,” the insider shared with the outlet.
The insider detailed their hangouts in specific terms. “She’s come to rehearsals, they’ve gone out to eat or went for walks,” sources explained to The U.S. Sun. However, the source added important context about the current status. “They aren’t in a relationship, but the attraction is there, it’s heading in that direction.”
The timing makes sense given their shared experience on set. Robert is the current frontrunner to win DWTS Season 34 and the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. However, his focus remains on the competition right now. “Robert has his eyes on the prize and is just trying to get through this season,” a source noted.
The Timeline and Key Players
| Person | Age | Background | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Irwin | 21 | Conservation expert, Australian wildlife personality | Competing on DWTS Season 34 |
| Xochitl Gomez | 19 | Marvel actress (America Chavez in Doctor Strange) | DWTS Season 32 Champion (2023) |
| Witney Carson | N/A | Professional dancer and DWTS pro | Robert’s dance partner on Season 34 |
| Val Chmerkovskiy | N/A | Professional dancer and DWTS pro | Xochitl’s Season 32 partner and former champion |
The age difference between them is relatively minimal at just two years. Both are on the cusp of major career developments. Xochitl became famous through the Marvel Cinematic Universe franchise. Robert carries the legacy of his famous wildlife expert father.
Other Romance Rumors on Set
Interestingly, Robert Irwin isn’t the only single contestant dealing with romance speculation. Sources say he’s also connected with Hailey Bills, a 19-year-old troupe dancer on the show. The insider explained that multiple women have developed feelings for the young Australian.
- Hailey Bills: Troupe dancer showing strong chemistry with Robert throughout the season.
- Robert’s charm has made him the subject of multiple romantic interests on set.
- He’s managed to juggle these connections while maintaining professional focus.
- His Australian status makes any potential romance long-distance and complicated.
- Hollywood producers have already approached him with TV and modeling offers post-DWTS.
“A lot of girls are into Robert, he’s trying to juggle it all while still remaining thoughtful and respectful,” a source told The U.S. Sun. The revelation shows his popularity extends beyond the dance floor.
What’s Next for Robert and Xochitl?
The DWTS Season 34 finale airs on November 25, 2025. Robert Irwin is expected to win the competition and the Mirrorball Trophy. However, his potential romance with Xochitl adds intrigue beyond the dance floor results.
Long-distance could become an issue, as Robert primarily lives in Australia with his family. However, reports suggest he may consider living in the United States part-time. Hollywood has already made multiple offers for TV appearances and modeling campaigns.
Whether this romance blossoms into something official remains to be seen. For now, the chemistry between them has captured fan attention nationwide. After the finale, Robert may finally be able to pursue personal connections freely without competition focus.
Sources
- The U.S. Sun – Exclusive report on secret dinner dates and insider accounts
- Deadline – Robert Irwin’s direct quotes about performing with Xochitl Gomez
- E! News – Coverage of dating rumors after DWTS performance
Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.