Photo Credit: Getty Images
Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez are once again fueling speculation about their relationship after being spotted spending private time together just hours before the live "Dancing With the Stars" finale. Irwin, one of the four finalists competing on Tuesday night, was photographed meeting with Gomez in what appeared to be a warm, personal moment away from the main production bustle.
According to images obtained by TMZ, the 19-year-old actress arrived with a large bouquet in hand before sharing an affectionate side hug with the 21-year-old wildlife conservationist. The pair were seen laughing, chatting, and standing close, signaling an ease that only intensified the circulating rumors. Gomez wore a sleek black strapless dress with a detached collar, while Irwin matched the glamour of finale night in a sparkling black button-down shirt and coordinating slacks.
Sources told the outlet that Gomez also spent time backstage with Irwin's family, adding yet another layer of intrigue to their connection. Representatives for both stars have not commented, though fans have been speculating for weeks. Romance rumors first kicked off earlier this month after the two performed a lively jive together during the show's 20th anniversary celebration. When approached by TMZ afterward, Irwin sidestepped direct questions, choosing instead to highlight how much "fun" they had dancing together.
Irwin later spoke about the contrasting energy of his routines, especially his emotional foxtrot tribute honoring his late father, Steve Irwin, performed with his sister Bindi and partner Witney Carson. "It was so cool to do two such distinct dances," he said, noting how the jive with Gomez brought a burst of excitement compared to the slow, heartfelt foxtrot.
Gomez's backstage visit also comes amid news that Irwin suffered a rib injury in the final days of rehearsals. Carson shared on TikTok that the pair had been forced to adjust parts of their choreography. "Robert's ribs have been killing him," she revealed, adding that the last-minute changes were "the most stressful part."
Still, Irwin appeared in good spirits during the meetup, and he didn't hold back praise for Gomez. "She's the best," he said. "It's been really, really great."
