Robert Irwin was spotted with his rumored new girlfriend while out and about in New York City this week.
The 22-year-old wildlife warrior and 25-year-old American wildlife photographer Ashley Scully were spotted arriving at the Hulu studios together, doing their best to keep a low profile given the intense interest in their romance.
Determined to keep their budding romance a secret and in an attempt to avoid being photographed side by side, Ashley strategically walked a couple of meters behind Robert as they headed into the studio.
Of course, it was not enough for prying eyes to catch what exactly was going on.
After his big win in the US Dancing with the Stars With professional partner Witney Carson and a brief stay at home in Oz, Robert returned to New York to promote his new spin-off series. Dancing with the Stars: The Next Prowhere he got a comfortable seat as the host. The series premieres July 13 on ABC and Hulu.
Ashley’s support during her man’s campaign has silenced recent rumors that the couple were in trouble just months after they began their romance.
Robert’s family reportedly expressed concern about his new love, namely the rapid speed with which he fell in love with her.
“It’s not that they’re questioning Ashley herself,” a source told US tabloid In Touch Weekly.
“In fact, they think she seems nice and can totally understand why he’s so into her. They’re more concerned that he’s already rushing ahead and making all kinds of plans when the relationship is still very new.”
Despite their alleged misgivings, Rob is believed to be pushing for Ashley to be integrated into the family business and “wants her to spend time at Australia Zoo, get to know the family business and become part of the wider Irvine world.”
This task shouldn’t be too difficult. The award-winning wildlife photographer is no stranger to the Irwin family, having worked with conservationists early in her career.
Back in 2018, Ashley posted a snapshot of herself on Instagram with a very young Robert, his mom Terri, and big sister Bindi, urging her followers to help end the hunting of grizzly bears in Wyoming.
“Please consider joining me and my friends the Irwins in speaking out on behalf of Wyoming grizzly bears,” the post read. “The planned trophy hunt for 24 grizzly bears is scheduled for fall 2018, and we still have some say in that decision.”
Robert and Ashley are believed to have maintained a close working relationship even before things turned romantic following his stint on the show. DVTS and extended his time in the US last year.