Robert Irwin talks dad's legacy and hosting 'Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro'

NEW YORK -- Ten years, almost to the day, after his sister Bindi lifted the Mirrorball Trophy, Robert Irwin danced his way to one of his own.

Now the reigning champ is stepping into a brand-new role: host of ABC's "Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro." It's a competition to find the ballroom's next generation of talented pros and it all starts Monday night.

For 34 seasons, the celebrities have been the stars of the ballroom -- now, for the first time, it's the dancers' turn.

As for the show's format, it will feature 12 up-and-coming dancers, one house, and a grueling audition process.

Filmed in Australia, the show takes place 45 minutes from Irwin's home.

"There may be an episode with some koalas and kangaroos," Irwin said.

And or the son of the Crocodile Hunter, every step is about legacy.

"I want that Irwin energy in this show, you know, not only on the dance floor, but got to get a little wild," Irwin said. "We've got to get the animals in there for sure."

And it's all so special because of Irwin's father, Steve.

"It's a message of wildlife conservation, and of course, my dad and my family started, but it's also about trying to show the world the importance of getting out of your comfort zone and trying something new and that's what it's all about," Irwin said. "And I never thought one of the biggest ways I could spread my message and reach a new audience would be through 'Dancing With the Stars.'"

Irwin said he often reflects on what his dad would think.

"All of the time of his passion is what stays with me every single day," Irwin said. "It's what my family try every day to keep alive, and he'd be like, 'What the heck?'

"Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro" premieres July 13 on ABC, streaming the next day on Hulu.

Disney is the parent company of Hulu, Disney+ and this ABC station.