Australian wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin was spotted looking relaxed and smiling alongside American wildlife photographer Ashleigh Scully on the Gold Coast this week, igniting a new wave of dating speculation just months after the 22-year-old "Dancing with the Stars" champion publicly described himself as single and open to love.

Robert Irwin
Robert Irwin

The images, captured as Irwin filmed a new reality television project, show the pair arriving at a parking garage and chatting comfortably during breaks. Onlookers described them as appearing "very friendly," with Irwin unable to wipe the smile off his face. However, there was no public display of affection, and sources close to the situation have not confirmed any romantic involvement as of March 25, 2026.

Scully, a 23- or 24-year-old diver and photographer based in Wyoming, shares Irwin's deep passion for animals and conservation. The two have reportedly known each other for years, first connecting around 2019 through wildlife circles. Fans and tabloids quickly noted the pairing as "on-brand" and "a match made in heaven," highlighting their mutual love for photography, scuba diving and protecting endangered species.

New Idea magazine published what it billed as a "WORLD EXCLUSIVE" identifying Scully as Irwin's potential new girlfriend, while Daily Mail Australia and other outlets ran galleries of the duo under headlines suggesting a budding romance. Social media erupted with excitement, with users pointing out Scully's resemblance to Irwin's ex-girlfriend Rorie Buckey and even to his mother, Terri Irwin.

Despite the frenzy, Irwin has not addressed the latest sightings. In interviews as recent as February 2026, he continued to deflect questions about his personal life with humor. During red carpet coverage of the NFL Honors and his first Super Bowl experience, he joked that his date would be "a snake named Priscilla." Earlier, on Australia's KIIS FM in January, he confirmed he was single but "definitely" looking for love, adding that his hectic schedule of travel, zoo duties and television commitments meant he had to "let it happen" naturally.

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Irwin's most recent confirmed relationship was with Rorie Buckey, the niece of the late actor Heath Ledger. The couple dated from late 2022 until their amicable split in February 2024. They occasionally shared glimpses on social media, including a red carpet appearance, but kept details private. Following the breakup, Irwin focused publicly on his work at Australia Zoo and his rising international profile.

Speculation about Irwin's love life intensified after his triumphant run on "Dancing with the Stars" Season 34 in late 2025, where he won the Mirrorball Trophy partnered with Witney Carson. An intimate dance with previous champion Xochitl Gomez during the show's 20th anniversary special fueled rumors, as did playful interactions with troupe dancer Hailey Bills. Irwin addressed the Gomez buzz lightly with TMZ, calling the performance "so much fun" without confirming or denying anything more.

The constant attention reflects Irwin's transition from beloved "Crocodile Hunter" offspring to a standalone star. Since childhood appearances alongside his father Steve Irwin and sister Bindi, he has carved a niche through stunning wildlife photography, hosting gigs like "I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!" and global conservation advocacy. His DWTS victory opened doors in American entertainment, increasing scrutiny of his private life.

Scully's background aligns closely with the Irwin family's ethos. As a professional wildlife photographer and diver, she has documented marine life and conservation efforts in the United States and beyond. Her Instagram handle, @ascullyphoto, features images that echo Robert's own photographic style. Some reports suggest the pair may have crossed paths at Australia Zoo earlier in 2026, adding fuel to the "soft launch" theories circulating on TikTok.

Friends and observers note that any partner for Irwin would need to understand his demanding lifestyle, which includes frequent flights between Australia and the United States, hands-on animal care and media obligations. Witney Carson, his DWTS partner, has spoken warmly about the qualities she believes he seeks: someone adventurous, kind and equally committed to wildlife causes.

The Gold Coast sightings come amid Irwin's busy 2026 slate. He continues working closely with his family at Australia Zoo, participates in conservation initiatives and explores new television projects. Rumors have also swirled about whether he might star as the next lead on "The Bachelor," a possibility he addressed with a playful "never say never" in February interviews.

Public reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with many fans expressing hope that Scully could be "the one." Social media posts describe the potential couple as perfectly matched in values and interests. Others appreciate Irwin's discretion, noting that he has always prioritized his family's legacy and animal welfare over celebrity gossip.

Irwin himself has spoken about the challenges of dating in the spotlight. In a New York Times conversation late last year, he acknowledged how quickly private moments can end up on TikTok. His approach appears measured: open to romance but protective of his personal boundaries and focused on purpose-driven work.

As of Wednesday, neither Irwin, Scully nor their representatives have issued statements confirming or denying a relationship. Tabloid coverage remains speculative, relying on visual evidence of friendliness rather than insider confirmation. TMZ emphasized that the pair looked comfortable but noted their long-standing friendship as context.

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The Irwin family has long emphasized privacy in personal matters while maintaining transparency in conservation efforts. Terri Irwin, Robert's mother and Australia Zoo matriarch, has not commented on the rumors.

Looking ahead, attention will likely remain on Irwin's professional milestones. With new filming projects underway and ongoing zoo initiatives, any romantic developments may unfold quietly or be shared on his terms. For now, the latest photos add another chapter to the young conservationist's high-profile journey without providing definitive answers.

In an era where celebrity relationships often play out publicly, Irwin's handling of the speculation echoes his father's charismatic yet grounded style. Whether Ashleigh Scully emerges as a confirmed partner or remains a close friend and collaborator, the sightings underscore Irwin's appeal as a young man balancing fame, family duty and a genuine passion for the natural world.

Fans will continue watching closely, but as Irwin has repeatedly advised: "Watch this space."