Julianne Hough Praises Bindi Irwin: 'She Is So Comfortable in Her Own Skin'

Bindi Irwin's "spirit is infectious," says DWTS judge Julianne Hough. Photo: Getty

WHO caught up with the bride-to-be at the Hallmark Signature Pop-Up Shop at New York Fashion Week on Wednesday, and she named terror train hero Alek Skarlatos and teen conservationist Bindi Irwin (who's partnered with her brother, Derek) as two celebrities she's excited to see more from.

"I was shocked with Alek, I think he was even shocked by his ability, too!" said Hough, 27. "I don't think anybody had any idea what to expect from him, and he was really graceful. He's really charming, and I said it when I was judging him the other night, but I feel like he is the everyman, the everywoman, America's representative. … And then Bindi was fantastic, her whole energy, her spirit is infectious."

The Emmy-winning choreographer is also inspired by Bindi's conduct outside competition.

"I just feel like she's a really great role model for young girls because she looks like she is so comfortable in her own skin, where therefore makes everybody else feel comfortable in their skin," Hough said. "So I just think she's a great person to be on the show, to represent that she's 17 and she likes herself, you know? It's pretty awesome."

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