Australian Conservationist Steve Irwin’s daughter Bindi Irwin to Compete on “Dancing with the Stars” Season 21

Bindi Irwin, the daughter of well-known late conservationist Steve Irwin, has been announced on Sunday as the first celebrity contestant of “Dancing With The Stars,” or "DWTS" Season 21. The announcement was made in “Good Morning America.”

The 17-year-old has her own dance troupe called “The Jungle Girls.” She said that there would be lots of surprises in store for viewers in terms of her ballroom costumes, People reports.

“I’m used to khaki and boots and I think it will always be a part of my life. We always say khaki is not just a colour; it’s an attitude,” Irwin said.

Irwin said that she hopes her dance partner would be an animal-loving person and have lots of patience. The Australian actress and television presenter, who has remained focused on wildlife and conservation efforts, hinted that people might see her love for animals during rehearsals, too.

The teen who has danced in a kids’ fitness video said that she is afraid of the judges of the show, even more than crocodiles. According to her, the judges are very knowledgeable about their field and are also very good in their work.

Irwin, who has co-created a book series called “Bindi Wildlife Adventures,” will temporarily relocate to Los Angeles to participate in ABC’s dance reality show. The teenager said that she will rely on her mother and younger brother for support.

Clearly excited to participate in “DWTS,” Irwin said that she is competing for the Mirrorball Trophy to inspire others. Irwin, who spends a month a year studying crocodiles at the Steve Erwin Wildlife Preserve, said that it is all about conquering the fear of delving into something new and taking the plunge. Irwin’s father Steve died in a stingray attack off the coast Australia when she was just eight.

Meanwhile, the complete lineup of professional dancers for Season 21 was announced last week. It includes Mirrorball champions like Derek Hough, Val Cherminovsky, Mark Ballas and Karina Smirnoff. The new season premieres on Sept. 14, Monday, on ABC.

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