Robert Irwin Spotted with Wildlife Photographer Ashleigh Scully Amid Romance Rumours
Robert Irwin was all smiles when he was spotted with rumoured new girlfriend, US wildlife photographer Ashleigh Scully. The Wildlife Warrior, aged 22, is currently filming the US Dancing With The Stars spinoff – The Next Pro. Robert looked very comfortable in Ashleigh's company when they were pictured arriving at a Gold Coast parking garage.
Casual Outing Sparks Speculation
Cutting quite the dapper figure, he wore a blue polo shirt that he matched with a pair of jeans. He was also spotted carrying a print-out – possibly the run sheet for that day's filming schedule. Meanwhile, Ashleigh wore a sleeveless navy blue dress and carried a light-coloured jacket. The 24-year-old accessorised with a brown leather shoulder bag and a pair of black sunglasses perched on her head.
The couple were joined by another woman and were seen happily chatting and laughing as they exited their vehicle. While there was no 'hard launching' of the relationship during the outing, a romance between Robert and Ashleigh would be a 'match made in heaven'.
Ashleigh Scully's Impressive Background
Ashleigh is a professional wildlife photographer who specialises in Arctic wildlife and underwater photography. Like Robert, Ashleigh began her passion for photography at a tender age, picking up the camera at eight. In 2021, she was named Outstanding Young Nature Photographer by the North American Nature Photography Association.
Aside from her photography prowess, Ashleigh is also an accomplished athlete, serving as Texas Christian University's (TCU) equestrian team captain for the 2024-25 season. The multi-talent also holds a BA and MA in Literature from TCU.
History of Rumours and Connections
Rumours about a romance between the pair have been swirling for quite some time. Back in 2019, Woman's Day reported that Robert, then 15, had grown close with Ashleigh, after the pair met in the US. The pair also sit on the judging panel for the Crikey! Magazine Photography Competition.
In February this year, the rumour mill went into overdrive when the pair were spotted on a deep sea diving expedition with US television personality Dylan Efron. One photo showed Robert sitting next to Ashleigh in a boat, decked out in scuba gear. They looked chuffed to be in each other's company, beaming as they posed for the group happy snap.
Fan Reactions and Robert's Personal Life
Many were quick to comment on the photo, suggesting that it was a 'soft launch' for the couple. 'An American girl who’s been a wildlife photographer since she was 8, a division I athlete, and has her masters in literature? Yup she’s perfect for him lol', one fan swooned. Another chimed in with a similar: 'The fact that they have been friends for years makes this even cuter OMMMGGGGGG.'
Robert has largely kept his personal life out of the spotlight in recent years. During his winning stint on US Dancing With The Stars, Robert was linked to actress Xochitl Gomez. He was also previously in a relationship with Rorie Buckley, the niece of late Aussie actor Heath Ledger. After marking their red carpet debut in July 2023, the relationship had petered out by February 2024.
