Bindi Irwin reunited with her former Dancing with the Stars partner to present him with the Innovator Award at the 2025 Dancers Against Cancer: Gala of the Stars on October 21.
If you’ve been a DWTS fan for a while, you’ll remember that Bindi and Derek won Season 21 back in 2015 — and their bond hasn’t skipped a beat since.
The wildlife conservationist and the pro dancer were one of the show’s most beloved teams, earning eight perfect scores on their way to the Mirrorball trophy.
Ten years later, Bindi got to honor her “big brother” Derek for his continued creativity and impact both on and off the dance floor.
“Derek inspires the world through dance, and I feel incredibly lucky that we took the mirrorball home together ten years ago,” Bindi shared on Instagram.
She also shouted out Derek’s newest role — dad-to-be — with his wife, Hayley Erbert.
The couple announced in July that they’re expecting their first child, a rainbow baby after previously experiencing a miscarriage.
“He’s about to become the most fantastic parent with his beautiful wife. Infinite love for them both.”
So now, watching Derek with constant heart eyes toward Robert Irwin reminds us of him and Bindi dancing together a decade ago.
Forever rooting for this friendship!
