Bindi Irwin’s DWTS tribute to her dad had us in tears

Performances on Dancing With the Stars run the spectrum from fun and playful to romantic and wistful. But last night, Bindi Irwin’s dance with Derek Hough was nothing short of touching, as she dedicated the performance to her dad, Steve Irwin.

“What shaped me the most would probably be when my dad passed away. It’s been nine years, and I’ve never really dwelled on that point. I think I’m ready to kind of tell that story,” Bindi said in the clip shown before her performance. “I wish he could fully understand what he’s done for me, and that I miss him.”

“This dance is for my dad, and for my family, and for everyone back at home, but for my dad,” she continued. “This is for him.”

The contemporary dance was set to “Every Breath You Take,” and everyone was deeply moved. It was given a 28 out of 30 points by the judges, and got the first full 10 of the season from Bruno Tonioli.

Bindi and Derek definitely earned the high praise. Watch the dance below, but have some tissues close by.

(Image via ABC)

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