Teen environmentalist Bindi Irwin has been dominating "Dancing With The Stars" with her partner Derek Hough but it seems that she might not be able to get what's due to her unless she can legally prove her father's death.
According to TMZ, the 17-year-old's contract was contested by a Los Angeles Superior Court judge is asking for a release form from her father in order for her to claim her cut for appearing on the reality show.
Her mother, Terri, already signed a release form, allowing her daughter to retain all of the money she would get for joining the show.
However, the judge reportedly required the same form from her dad, Steven, who died in 2006.
The Australian conservationist, famous for his work with crocodiles, alligators and other animals, was attacked by a stingray during an expedition almost a decade ago.
TMZ wasn't sure if the judge was ignorant of Steven Irwin's passing or if she's just "a stickler for a death certificate."
Meanwhile, Daily Mail reported that her dad's death certificate may not be enough to support the minor's claim to her earnings.
She has been quiet on social media since the news broke. However, she finally broke her silence with a thought-provoking quote on Instagram.
"Are you proud of what you have become," the photo read, with the reality star captioning it with a question mark.
If this legal bump can be cleared, Bindi Irwin's "Dancing With The Star" payout could amount to at least $230,000.
She's reportedly guaranteed $125,000 just for joining the show. After surviving weeks three and four, she added $10,000 to her earnings. Her appearance fee has since gained an interest of $5,000 in the weeks that followed.
Considering that she's been getting near perfect scores for every night she's on, she could very well win the entire thing.
Bindi Irwin has been dedicating her most memorable "Dancing With The Stars" performances to her late father.
