Robert Irwin's New Host Role, Mom's Absence

0:00This is Corey with the story, and here's what's trending across entertainment and celebrity news right now. Robert Irwin, the 22-year-old star fresh off his big win on Dancing with the Stars in the United States, is now hosting a new spin-off called Dancing with the Stars, The Next Pro. Production kicked off two weeks ago in Brisbane, with filming moving along smoothly for this Disney and BBC series. The show mixes competition with a big brother-style set-up, where contestants live and train together. Robert stepped in as host right before cameras rolled, marking a big moment in his career. One big change stands out. His mother, Terry Irwin, who is 61, has not shown up on set at all. She's usually right there supporting him, from cheering at his US dance competition to hanging around during his Australian reality TV shoots. Insiders say the absence has caught everyone's attention, and hints that Robert might be carving out more independence. Someone on set have noticed the shift from her typical hands-on-roll.

1:00Meanwhile, his former dance partner, Whitney Carson, is heading to Australia to join the production, adding some international flair. Part of the show will film at Australia Zoo, so Terry could still pop up there, but day-to-day filming feels like Robert's solo spotlight for now.