Hollywood actor Russell Crowe has shared a heartfelt insight into what his late, great friend Steve Irwin would have thought of his son Robert's impressive run on the hit television show Dancing with the Stars.
A Lifelong Friendship and Family Bond
The Oscar-winning Gladiator star became close friends with the beloved Crocodile Hunter after they met in Australia during the 1990s. Following Steve Irwin's tragic passing in 2006, Crowe has maintained a strong connection with Steve's widow, Terri, and their children, Bindi and Robert Irwin.
In a feature story about Robert published by the New York Times, Crowe didn't hold back his admiration. He expressed his firm belief that Steve would be 'so impressed' with his 21-year-old son's journey on the dance competition.
A Father's Rhythm and a Son's Poise
Crowe painted a humorous yet affectionate picture of his late friend's musical abilities, providing a poignant contrast to Robert's graceful performances. 'Although Steve could read the rhythms of the seasons and every living creature, he was absolutely not gifted with a sense of musical rhythm,' Crowe wrote.
He added with a touch of humour, 'In his hands, a tambourine becomes a deadly weapon.' The actor then turned his focus to Robert's astounding talent. 'I think he would watch Robert dancing and how he uses his body, the strength and poise, and he would be in awe of his son.'
Keeping a Father's Memory Close
This touching tribute from a family friend came just after Robert himself revealed a deeply personal ritual that connects him to his father during the competition. In an Instagram video, the young wildlife conservationist shared that he wears his dad's shirt to every single DWTS rehearsal to 'keep him close'.
Robert emotionally explained, 'It just feels like a big hug every time I put it on.' On the day of the competition's finale, Robert reposted the article containing Crowe's kind words to his own Instagram, captioning it simply with a smiling face and a heart emoji.
The now-champion has previously spoken about his family's enduring bond with the Hollywood star, noting that Crowe has been a constant presence in his life. 'He's actually been there to, in a way, keep my dad alive — he has so many stories to share of him and my dad, and I feel like I build an even better picture of my dad when I'm around Russell,' Robert said at the 2025 AFI Fest.
He fondly reflected on the unique friendship, adding, 'Russell and dad were just great mates, so it's a different perspective than when you're hearing from your mum — he's someone that I look up to and has truly inspired me.'
