Robert Irwin has taken great pride in following in his late father Steve Irwin's footsteps and continuing his conservation work. There is no denying the resemblance between father and son. However, according to his mother Terri, there is one key difference.
Speaking to People magazine at the Steve Irwin Gala in Las Vegas on Saturday, Terri said it was "incredibly special" to carry on the work alongside her son. "But I will say the one thing that Robert's got that Steve didn't — Steve never took his shirt off for wildlife," she joked.
Robert has become known for doing exactly that. During his time on Dancing With The Stars in the US, he ditched his shirt several times throughout his performances, ultimately winning season 34 of the competition. The young wildlife warrior also starred in the Bonds underwear campaign Made for Down Under last year, which showcased Robert in just his briefs, draped with snakes and spiders.
In response to his mother's comment, Robert simply insisted he has been doing "whatever gets the job done."
The Annual Gala and Conservation Work
The annual gala, hosted by the Irwin family, raises funds to continue the conservation work started by the Crocodile Hunter before his death. "Everything started so small," Terri said, reflecting on the growth of Australia Zoo. "It was two acres, it was a few animals, and it was no filming. And so to see where we've gone, and to have Steve embrace that, was so impressive."
Speaking about working alongside Robert and daughter Bindi, Terri said it has been deeply meaningful to carry on Steve's legacy with their children. "It was a lot of work, it was a lot of grief," Terri said. "There were times of great joy. And to be able to have shared that with him was incredibly special — and carry it on."
Robert's Tribute to His Father
Robert attended the gala alongside DWTS alumni, including his dance partner Witney Carson, with the pair performing for guests on the night. "I think a night like tonight is the culmination of his passion, his love for conservation, but also the fact that family and fun — that was the most important thing, too," Robert said. "I think he'll always be my greatest role model in life, alongside my mum."
Guests gathered at the Bellagio Casino in Las Vegas on Saturday for the annual Steve Irwin Gala, an event dedicated to recognising the work of Wildlife Warriors Worldwide — the non-profit founded by Steve and Terri Irwin. Attendees were treated to a three-course dinner and a night of entertainment, with roving animals, performers, guest speakers and a live auction. Set inside a khaki-decked ballroom and surrounded by Wildlife Warriors, the annual event continues to honour Steve's larger-than-life personality, his boundless enthusiasm and his extraordinary passion for wildlife.
"It was a room full of friends and family gathering together to celebrate the life and legacy of my Dad," Robert posted on Instagram. "His passion, and message lives on. Thank you to everyone who joined us last night to support @wildlifewarriorsworldwide."
