DWTS’ Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy Have High Hopes for Robert Irwin

Crikey! Dancing with the Stars professionals Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy are already predicting who could win Season 34.

As the married couple prepares for the new season, they’re putting their (figurative) money on Australian conservationist Robert Irwin. They believe Robert has what it takes to be a fan favorite and make it as far as the DWTS finale.

“There’s something about positivity and energy, and his is contagious,” Jenna told E! News on Aug. 7. “And they’re such a great family. So, I’m just excited to watch his journey. He is going to be an incredible personality on our show.”

Could Robert Irwin win Dancing with the Stars?

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Bindi Irwin (@bindisueirwin)

Though it’s not his first trip to the ballroom, it will be Robert’s first time dancing. He’s following in the footsteps of his big sister, Bindi Irwin, who took home the mirrorball trophy back in Season 21.

“We’ve been such big fans of Robert Irwin since he was little, coming on set to watch Bindi perform,” Jenna recalled.

The son of beloved late conservationist/zookeep Steve Irwin is already shaping up to be a fan favorite. And you don’t need dance experience to win, as Bindi proved. Neither did last season’s winner, Bachelor alum Joey Graziadei, though he had athletic ability.

So, who will emerge as this year’s fan favorite? According to Val, it won’t be hard to spot.

“I think it’s obvious when there’s a frontrunner pre-season, but there’s still so many elements,” he explained to E! News. “I hate to mention it – injury – but also just the chemistry, the vibe, the growth, the partnership … There’s so many things, so many variables that have to blossom.”

“You can’t possibly predict an entire season based on just the lineup,” he added. “I’m the front runner.”