Bindi Irwin has proven to be a very talented dancer on this year’s series of Dancing With The Stars.

And the animal lover has left us in tears on more than one occasion, dedicating several of her emotional routines to her beloved late father.

But, despite the fact that Steve Irwin passed away in 2006, new reports claim that a court judge is demanding proof of his death before his 17-year-old daughter can claim her pay from the dance show.

TMZ.com explained: “Lawyers for the show submitted a minor's contract to an L.A. Superior Court judge... it's required because Bindi is 17.

“Her mom Terri signed a form stating she gives up all rights to any money her daughter will make on the show.”

They continued: “For some reason the judge wants the same release from Bindi's dad, the late Steve Irwin.

“The judge said without proof of Steve giving up his rights to Bindi's money, ‘the court is unable to find that it is in the best interest of the minor to be bound by the terms of the contract.’”

The show’s lawyers are reportedly doing everything they can to get the judge to sign off, so that the Crocodile Hunter’s daughter can get the guaranteed $230K she is owed for making it through to week 8.

Depending on how far she makes it through the show, Bindi could also be awarded up to $130K.

It remains unclear as to whether or not the judge was unaware that Bindi’s famous father was killed in 2006, or if they just require a death certificate.

Steve Irwin had been filming a documentary series, Ocean's Deadliest, in 2006, when a 2.4-metre ray struck out at the 44-year-old in shallow water as it was swimming away from him.

The barb pierced his heart, tragically killing him.

Bindi, who has wowed audiences with her powerful dance routines, revealed that she was left close to tears following her first appearance on DWTS.

Talking exclusively to Us Weekly, she said: "It was all I could do not to cry!

"We came off stage and I couldn't stop shaking. The audience, the support and love was overwhelming. I'm just blessed beyond words. My family (mum Terri and 11-year-old brother, Bob) was here watching."

But Bindi also admitted that carrying on her father's legacy hasn't been easy, saying:

"I think that people always say when people pass away that time heals all wounds. And that's probably the biggest lie, it's not true.

“I think we all need to remember that it is always still tough and it's like losing a piece of your heart."