It’s often the unexpected moments that trigger the strongest emotions. For many, tears might well up during a sentimental commercial, a documentary about animals in need, or listening to a poignant song. So, it came as a surprise when a wave of emotion washed over while watching Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough perform the rumba on Dancing with the Stars. Their routine, a homage to Dirty Dancing, complete with the iconic lift, resonated deeply. This reaction was unexpected, particularly considering a general lack of fervent interest in celebrity dance competitions or the Irwin family saga. Yet, like many others, each week became an eager search for updates on Bindi’s progress on Dancing with the Stars.
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Throughout the season, Bindi Irwin’s performances evoked a similar emotional cocktail: a blend of pride, affection, and a distinct sense of relief. This relief stemmed from witnessing Irwin seemingly navigate the treacherous path of “former child stardom” with grace and authenticity, a feat not often accomplished by those who grow up under the relentless glare of the public eye.
There’s a unique, almost paternal or maternal, response to seeing child stars transition into adulthood. This feeling is akin to the emotional swell experienced watching Patrick Fugit, once the bright-eyed William Miller in Almost Famous, reappear as a grown-up in We Bought A Zoo. The urge to reach through the screen and say, “Last time I saw you, you were so small!” is surprisingly strong.
Image alt text: Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough gracefully execute a dance move during their rumba performance on Dancing with the Stars, showcasing their strong partnership and emotional connection.
The challenges of growing up in the spotlight are well-documented. Actor Jackie Earle Haley, in a Washington Post profile following his comeback role in Little Children, articulated the perils of early fame. “When you’re a child actor and you’re a celebrity,” he explained, “your identity gets attached to that.” He further elaborated on the fragility of self-esteem built on fleeting fame, stating, “My self-esteem got attached to this thing that wasn’t real, and when that stopped, you’re stuck with an identity that doesn’t exist. That’s a deep hole to climb out of.”
Navigating this “deep hole” becomes exponentially more complex when compounded by the enduring tragedy of a famous parent’s death. Bindi Irwin’s contemporary dance tribute to her father, Steve Irwin, on Dancing with the Stars was profoundly moving. She spoke of his legacy with the familiar confidence and warmth, before the dance concluded with her breaking down in tears. This raw vulnerability was a stark reminder of the personal journey underpinning her public performances.
Image alt text: A deeply emotional Bindi Irwin is overcome with tears at the conclusion of her contemporary dance on Dancing with the Stars, a heartfelt tribute to her late father, Steve Irwin.
The success stories of child stars who transition seamlessly into adulthood, like Natalie Portman or Joseph Gordon-Levitt, remain exceptions. In today’s unforgiving celebrity news cycle, the journey from child star to mature adult seems fraught with peril. The media landscape hasn’t been kind to figures like Haley Joel Osment, Jake Lloyd, Amanda Bynes, Britney Spears, and many others, whose struggles have been heavily publicized.
Prachi Gupta, writing in Salon after Amanda Bynes’ public struggles, highlighted the uphill battle faced by former child stars. “There’s a reason that successful child stars are seen as the exception, not the norm. Who could reasonably expect Britney Spears to be a functional adult when at 16 she was the world’s No 1 sex symbol?” This question underscores the immense pressure and often unrealistic expectations placed upon young performers.
Previously, Bindi Irwin might have been considered among those facing an uncertain trajectory. Her 2006 rap single, “Trouble In The Jungle,” remains a quirky artifact of her childhood fame. Her participation in Dancing With the Stars could be viewed, cynically, as a calculated PR strategy to propel her from awkward adolescence back into the spotlight as a polished young adult.
However, Bindi’s authenticity shines through, particularly in the behind-the-scenes footage. It’s in these moments that the “she made it!” sentiment truly solidifies. Away from the polished performances, she’s seen bantering with Derek Hough, attempting the Dirty Dancing lift in a relaxed setting, exclaiming “oh, jeez!” and displaying a genuine, down-to-earth personality. This genuine nature suggests a resilience and groundedness that bodes well for her future.
Image alt text: In a behind-the-scenes moment, Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough practice the iconic lift from Dirty Dancing, showcasing their playful camaraderie and dedication to perfecting their routine for Dancing with the Stars.
Regardless of the competition’s outcome, Bindi Irwin’s journey on Dancing with the Stars has been a compelling narrative of grace under pressure and authentic self-discovery. And yes, there’s a strong likelihood that tears will flow when she takes the stage for the finale, celebrating not just dance, but a young woman’s inspiring journey.
