“DWTS: Next Pro” Star Allen Genkin Says Robert Irwin Was Like a ‘Big Brother’ to Him When Discussing Grief (Exclusive)

**A Heartfelt Tribute Unfolds on ‘Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro’**

The second episode of ‘Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro’ took an emotional turn as contestant Allen Genkin dedicated his dance performance to the memory of his late mother. This powerful segment aired on July 20 and served not only as a dance routine but as a poignant exploration of grief.

During this episode, guest judge Brandon Armstrong encouraged participants to create a dance that reflects significant life experiences. For Genkin, 36, this challenge was particularly personal. Alongside his dance partner, Adele Zaikman, he chose to honour his mother, who he lost at the age of 15. Genkin expressed the desire to celebrate her life while also confronting his own journey through grief.

In an interview at the ‘Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro’ premiere watch party in Los Angeles, Genkin revealed, “My mum is probably one of my biggest inspirations… I hold her close to my heart all the time, with everything that I do.” He reflected on how his mother had envisioned him becoming a professional dancer on the show, stating, “It’s really surreal to be able to tell her story. I just hope that I made her proud.”

Rehearsals for the rumba were emotional for both Genkin and Zaikman, with the duo reportedly shedding tears during each practice session. Recognising the depth of Genkin’s story, show host Robert Irwin, who claimed victory on season 34 of ‘Dancing with the Stars’, decided to pay him a visit. “I wanted to visit Allen today because I know he’s telling a very important story, a story that’s hard to tell,” Irwin shared during a confessional segment.

Irwin has personal experience with grief, having lost his father, Steve Irwin, in a tragic incident involving a stingray. In a previous season, Irwin performed a dedication dance to his mother, Terri Irwin, during the show’s Dedication Night, expressing how it allowed him to feel connected to her once more.

“I understand what it’s like to lose someone,” he told Genkin, emphasizing the significance of sharing such emotional moments through dance. “Movement and dance…that is the thing that gives you the ability to face that,” he explained, offering solace to Genkin as they discussed their shared feelings of loss.

The connection forged during their conversation had a profound impact on Genkin, who viewed Irwin as a comforting presence. “It felt very comforting and very calm and peaceful,” he said, expressing gratitude for Irwin’s support. Their exchange revealed the degree of vulnerability experienced by both men, as they recounted their respective journeys of coping with loss.

Genkin and Zaikman’s routine, set to “See You Again” by Charlie Puth, evoked strong emotions not only for the dancers but also for viewers. By the conclusion of their performance, Genkin was left in tears, enveloped in Zaikman’s embrace, showcasing the depth of the moment. The judges were visibly moved, with Armstrong commenting, “I got emotional watching it… I thought it was amazing.”

The emotional weight of the performance resonated with the panel. Judge Shirley Ballas wiped away tears as she praised the quality of their storytelling through dance, calling it one of the most beautiful performances she had ever witnessed.

As Genkin and Zaikman exited the stage, Irwin offered words of encouragement, telling Genkin, “She’d be so proud.” This affirmation highlighted the support system that had been established on the show.

‘Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro’ airs on Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC, inviting viewers to engage not only with the competitive aspect of dancing but also with the deeply personal stories that shape the lives of competitors. Through shared experiences of love and grief, the show continues to touch hearts and offer solace to those watching.