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Robert Irwin | Source: Getty Images
Robert Irwin | Source: Getty Images

Robert Irwin, 22, Ignites Romance Buzz After Being Spotted With a Stunning Blonde Woman in New Outing – Photos

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Mar 27, 2026
06:42 A.M.

A mystery woman spotted with the "Dancing with the Stars" season 34 winner has fans buzzing — but her identity is only part of the story. From her impressive background to a viral resemblance fans can't ignore, the intrigue only deepens with every detail.

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She's beautiful, accomplished, and suddenly everywhere — but who exactly is the blonde woman spotted with Robert Irwin? That question alone had fans hooked… until another detail sent the internet into a spiral.

Before diving into the viral moment, let's talk about the woman at the center of it all — and why she's already capturing attention beyond just her looks.

A netizen comment dated March 26, 2026. | Source: Instagram/dailymailau

A netizen comment dated March 26, 2026. | Source: Instagram/dailymailau

Meet the Woman

Before the rumors, before the viral photos, there's Ashleigh Scully — and her story is anything but ordinary. Ashleigh is a 24-year-old wildlife photographer whose work has already earned global recognition, quietly building a name long before this unexpected spotlight.

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Effortlessly chic, Asleigh Scully smiles on a cobblestone street, her relaxed black suit and soft posture capturing a blend of elegance and easy confidence in a leafy city setting. | Source: Instagram/ascullyphoto

Effortlessly chic, Asleigh Scully smiles on a cobblestone street, her relaxed black suit and soft posture capturing a blend of elegance and easy confidence in a leafy city setting. | Source: Instagram/ascullyphoto

Her Instagram showcases breathtaking shots of animals from around the world, reflecting a career that began when she was just eight years old. According to her official website, she has traveled extensively, photographing wildlife in places like Tanzania, Norway, and Canada, with a growing focus on underwater photography.

But it's her list of achievements that truly stands out. She was named a member of the 2024 "100 For the Ocean" campaign, won the 2021 NANPA Outstanding Young Photographer Award, and even earned the Wildlife Photographer of the Year title in 2017 (youth category).

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Asleigh Scully sits on a windswept shore, camera in hand, with snow-capped mountains behind her. | Source: Instagram/ascullyphoto

Asleigh Scully sits on a windswept shore, camera in hand, with snow-capped mountains behind her. | Source: Instagram/ascullyphoto

Her work has also been featured in major institutions, with multiple images showcased at the Smithsonian and the London Natural History Museum — a rare feat for someone so young.

And she's not just creative — her LinkedIn profile reveals that she holds both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in literature, was a five-time All-American equestrian athlete, and has collaborated with major institutions like the Smithsonian and the BBC. In short, she was already impressive before the headlines ever found her.

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Standing at a podium, Asleigh Scully delivers remarks beneath towering museum displays, the setting adding weight to her composed presence. | Source: Instagram/ascullyphoto

Standing at a podium, Asleigh Scully delivers remarks beneath towering museum displays, the setting adding weight to her composed presence. | Source: Instagram/ascullyphoto

The Sighting That Changed Everything

Then came the moment that shifted everything from admiration to speculation.

On March 25, 2026, Daily Mail reported that Robert had been spotted out with Ashleigh — and suddenly, a low-key outing became headline news. The two appeared relaxed and comfortable together, instantly sparking curiosity about their connection. It didn't take long for the images to circulate — and once they did, fans began noticing something no one expected.

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Robert Irwin. | Source: Getty Images

Robert Irwin. | Source: Getty Images

The Detail Fans Can't Stop Talking About

At first, it was just curiosity. Then it became something else entirely. Social media viewers quickly honed in on one striking observation — and they weren't shy about it. One person wrote, "She kind of looks like Terri, irwin he's mom [sic]." Another commented, "I love when they look like siblings 😂💀."

A third added, "The man is more than able to have female friends and not every woman he's seen with is dating him… however, this lovely person looks a little like his mom when she was their age… and that's adorable."

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Over on TikTok, the reactions were just as intense. One person wrote, "How much does she look like Terri [sic]." Another added, "She looks like his mother." And one viral comment read, "his dating his mother's doppleganger [sic]."

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Romance Rumors or Something Else?

For many fans, the resemblance between Ashleigh and Terri Irwin became impossible to ignore. From their blonde hair to their soft features and shared connection to wildlife, the similarities quickly became the main talking point. And just like that, the conversation shifted — from Who is she? to Wait… does she remind you of someone?

Terri Irwin is seen leaving "Dancing With The Star" rehearsals in Los Angeles, California on November 10, 2025.  | Source: Getty Images

Terri Irwin is seen leaving "Dancing With The Star" rehearsals in Los Angeles, California on November 10, 2025. | Source: Getty Images

Despite the frenzy, neither Robert nor Ashleigh has confirmed any romantic involvement. Given their overlapping worlds — conservation, photography, and global travel — it wouldn't be surprising if their connection is purely professional or friendly. Still, the chemistry seen in the photos has left fans reading between the lines.

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Why Everyone Is Still Watching

Robert has always kept his personal life relatively private, which makes moments like this feel even more significant. Add in a woman with an already fascinating background and a resemblance that sparked thousands of comments, and it's no wonder the internet can't look away.

Terri Irwin and Robert Irwin attend the Steve Irwin gala to support the Wildlife Warriors conservationist organization at Bellagio Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada  on May 11, 2024. | Source: Getty Images

Terri Irwin and Robert Irwin attend the Steve Irwin gala to support the Wildlife Warriors conservationist organization at Bellagio Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 11, 2024. | Source: Getty Images

Whether this turns into a romance or fades as speculation, one thing is certain — those photos have people talking for all the unexpected reasons. Now that you know the story behind the moment, the images hit a little differently. Every glance, every detail, every comparison — it all started here.

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And if this latest sighting feels like déjà vu, that's because it's not the first time Robert has sparked romance rumors after being spotted with a striking companion.

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The Australian conservationist and TV personality turned heads during the "Dancing with the Stars" finale — and not just for his winning moves. Fans were also quick to speculate when a familiar Hollywood face appeared by his side.

On November 25, 2025, wildlife warrior Robert Irwin captivated audiences with his appearance in the "Dancing with the Stars (DWTS)" season finale. But while fans were dazzled by his dance moves, it was who he was spotted with before and after the performance that truly set tongues wagging.

A netizen's comment on a video showing Robert Irwin hugging Xochitl Gomez at "Dancing with The Stars" on November 25, 2025 | Source: Instagram/people

A netizen's comment on a video showing Robert Irwin hugging Xochitl Gomez at "Dancing with The Stars" on November 25, 2025 | Source: Instagram/people

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A Barefoot Beauty by His Side Before the Show

In a scene straight out of a Hollywood rom-com, a publication released two candid outdoor photos of Robert dressed in all black — a shiny button-down shirt, matching trousers, and white sneakers — standing with his back to the camera.

In his hands, a delicate bouquet. But it was his guest who stole the spotlight. Xochitl Gomez, the stunning "Avengers" actress, was seen laughing with her arms crossed, barefoot and carefree in a black halter-neck ankle-length dress with a matching bag slung over her arm.

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She threw her head back in laughter as Robert struck a playful pose, balancing on one leg. The publication had no doubts, declaring, "Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez are doing little to dispel rumors they're dating ... in fact, it's quite the opposite ... because they were spotted hanging out before his big 'Dancing With The Stars' finale."

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From Finale to Full-on Frenzy

Adding fuel to the fire, another outlet shared a clip of the 21-year-old Australian celebrating his Season 34 win, Mirrorball Trophy in hand. But fans couldn't help but notice who he rushed to: none other than Xochitl.

The moment they embraced — long, heartfelt, and filled with whispers — was caught on camera. Fans immediately went wild. One stunned person exclaimed, "[Expletive], y'all really not gone give them their privacy 😂 about this dating rumors. [sic]"

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Another fan cut to the chase, yelling, "KISS!," before coyly adding, "who said that 👂👀." Others swooned over their bond, with one stating, "They would make the cutest couple 😍👏🔥🙌❤️."

Still, not everyone was convinced. One netizen dismissed the scene, saying it just "[sic] seems like a friendly hug!" As if the hug wasn't intimate enough, eagle-eyed viewers claimed they could read Robert's lips.

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One insisted, "He says 'see you soon' 🥰👀👀," while another chimed in, "He said 'see you soon' 💕💕." A third wrote, "For those who can't lip read… he said 'hello', hugged while saying 'obviously' and then left while saying 'I'll see you soon.' That's what I just saw one of the reader pages post lol. [sic]" Whether fantasy or fact, fans were hooked.

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It wasn't just the hug that had people buzzing. Witnesses revealed Xochitl brought the bouquet for Robert and spent much of her time by his side, even though four finalists were present.

Backstage, she was allegedly seen mingling with his famous family, including his sister and former "DWTS" champ Bindi Irwin, and their devoted mother, Terri Irwin.

Robert Irwin on the finale episode that saw the five remaining couples competing for a chance at winning the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy on November 25, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

Robert Irwin on the finale episode that saw the five remaining couples competing for a chance at winning the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy on November 25, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

Dance Chemistry That Sparked It All

Xochitl is no stranger to the ballroom. She won Season 32 in 2023 alongside Val Chmerkovskiy. This season, she lent her support behind the scenes and cheered Robert on as he rehearsed his final freestyle.

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Their bond appeared to blossom during "DWTS's" 20th birthday celebration, which aired on November 11. Paired for a Relay Dance round, they jived their hearts out to "Dance with Me Tonight" by Olly Murs — and fans weren't the only ones noticing the on-stage sparks.

Xochitl Gomez and Robert Irwin at the 20th Birthday Party, "Dancing with the Stars" celebration on November 11, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

Xochitl Gomez and Robert Irwin at the 20th Birthday Party, "Dancing with the Stars" celebration on November 11, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

Judge Derek Hough praised their chemistry, and Robert's partner, Witney Carson, shot a knowing look that said it all. That moment ignited a firestorm of speculation. When TMZ cornered Robert, asking the question on everyone's mind — are you an item? — he skillfully redirected.

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"Oh my gosh, we had the best time. That dance was so much fun," he said. Just days later, on November 14, he doubled down on the flattery:

"The dance with Xochitl which was just like energy and fun. She's the best, it's been really, really great."

Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez making funny faces while dancing at the DWTS 20th Birthday Party | Source: Getty Images

Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez making funny faces while dancing at the DWTS 20th Birthday Party | Source: Getty Images

But Wait – There's Another Girl in the Picture

Yet just when fans thought Robert and Xochitl might be heading for a fairy tale ending, another woman entered the frame: Hailey Bills, a 19-year-old professional dancer from "DWTS." A celebrity gossip account claimed Robert had a growing connection with the brunette beauty.

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It revealed an anonymous tip that came via email, reading, "Everyone's favourite DWTS bachelor has paused his search for his American dream girl to have some play time beyond the ballroom. My sources tell me he's been spotted a few times getting cosy with a brunette... The same one he follows around on set. She's the only troupe member he follows on Instagram."

Jaxon Willard and Hailey Bills on "Dancing with the Stars" on September 23, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

Jaxon Willard and Hailey Bills on "Dancing with the Stars" on September 23, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

The mystery girl was later confirmed to be Hailey, a seasoned dancer who has been dancing since 2012 and is trained in ballroom, ballet, and hip hop. While neither Hailey nor Robert has addressed the whispers, the latter did recently post a video of the two dancing energetically together, outside the ballroom.

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Hailey Bills and Robert Irwin on "Dancing with The Star's" "Wicked Night" on October 21, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

Hailey Bills and Robert Irwin on "Dancing with The Star's" "Wicked Night" on October 21, 2025 | Source: Getty Images

From Breakups to Erewhon Dates

This wouldn't be Robert's first public romance. He famously split from longtime love, Rorie Buckey, in February 2024 and admitted in November that year that he was still searching for love.

Yet the gossip mill insists he's found someone or possibly someones. In addition to Hailey, the same gossip account reported a date with Xochitl at upscale Los Angeles hotspot Erewhon. So which girl has truly captured Robert's heart?

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Xochitl Gomez and Robert Irwin dropping some moves on the dance floor | Source: Getty Images

Xochitl Gomez and Robert Irwin dropping some moves on the dance floor | Source: Getty Images

According to a new report, Robert is keeping things casual for now. Sources say the animal-loving Australian is looking for "Miss right now" instead of "Miss right," and that he's in no rush to settle down.

But he's not giving up hope. At the "DWTS" premiere, Robert opened up about the kind of love he wants, referencing the romantic stories of his famous family. He said, "My mom and dad met when she was this American tourist coming over to Australia, and that's also how my sister met her husband."

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His late father is the famous Steve Irwin, and his sister is married to Chandler Powell. Then, wistfully, he asked, "When is that going to happen for me?! I'm still waiting for it." He added, "That American tourist is not quite lined up."

Still, Robert admitted that dating in the spotlight comes with its challenges. In a November 23 interview, he confessed, "Holy moly, that's so challenging to navigate," noting that "anything you do will be on TikTok the next day."

Despite the chaos of fame, he insists he stays true to himself. The star explained, "I never change what I say, what I do, who I am one bit, wherever I am. It's just me, and I stand by who I am."

For now, one thing is clear — whether it's a new connection or just another headline-making moment, Robert Irwin has everyone watching closely.

And with every new sighting, the question only grows louder: is this finally something real — or just another mystery waiting to unfold?

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