For Robert Irwin, the son of the legendary Steve Irwin, understanding his late father’s legacy has taken a unique and deeply personal turn. Thanks to the treasured recollections of actor Russell Crowe, a longtime family friend, Robert is uncovering new dimensions of the man he lost at just two years old. This connection transcends typical family anecdotes, offering a rare glimpse into the “Crocodile Hunter’s” life from the perspective of a close mate.
The bond between 21-year-old Robert Irwin and acclaimed actor Russell Crowe, 61, is far more profound than mere friendship. At the 2025 AFI Fest screening of Crowe’s latest film, Nuremberg, Robert revealed to People how Crowe has become an invaluable conduit to his late father, Steve Irwin. This unique relationship is actively helping Robert keep his father’s memory vibrant and alive.
“I’ve known him for as long as I’ve been alive,” Robert shared about Crowe during the Oct. 24 event in California, which he attended alongside his mother, Terri Irwin. He reflected on some of his earliest memories, noting, “Some of the earliest memories of me with my dad were also with Russell, which is really special.”
A Lifelong Connection: Crowe as a Keeper of Memories
For Robert, Crowe isn’t just a friend; he’s a living archive of his father’s life. “I’m really grateful that I have someone in my life who … he’s actually been there to, in a way, keep my dad alive in my life,” Robert expressed of the Gladiator star. Crowe’s extensive collection of stories provides Robert with a richer, more nuanced portrait of Steve. “He has so many stories to share of him and dad, and I feel like I build an even better picture of my dad when I’m around Russell.”
Robert emphasized that Crowe offers a distinct viewpoint, different from what he might hear from his immediate family. “Russell and dad were just great mates, so it’s a different perspective than when you’re hearing about your mom,” he explained. This fresh angle has been profoundly meaningful for Robert, who considers Crowe a source of inspiration.
The Enduring Legacy of Steve Irwin
Steve Irwin, affectionately known worldwide as the “Crocodile Hunter,” was a passionate Australian zookeeper and wildlife conservationist. His energetic television personality brought wildlife into homes across the globe, inspiring millions with his dedication to animals and nature. His life was tragically cut short in 2006 at the age of 44 when he was attacked by a stingray off the coast of Australia while filming an underwater documentary. Robert was only two years old at the time, leaving him with very few direct memories of his iconic father.
Robert’s Personal Journey: Grief, Strength, and Inspiration
Beyond his recent reflections on his father, Robert has also been navigating a deeply personal journey on Dancing With the Stars alongside partner Witney Carson. This experience has encouraged him to explore emotions he hadn’t previously shared publicly, especially concerning his father.
Ahead of the show’s “Dedication Night” episode, Robert shared in an Oct. 12 TikTok video that he had been “tapping into emotions that I haven’t really gotten to share before.” He added, “I’ve been thinking a lot about my dad, I’ve been thinking a lot about the highs and the lows, the grief, the way my mom has helped me navigate that.”
During an emotional performance dedicated to his mother, Terri Irwin, 61, Robert spoke extensively about her role as a guiding light. He praised her as an embodiment of true strength. “My mom exemplifies how to be strong,” he told People. “You think strong is like steadfast, you show up, you just carry on, and everything’s fine. That’s not what strength is.”
He elaborated on his understanding of strength: “True strength is being able to find and feel your own vulnerability, your own emotion, and use that to carry yourself and to hopefully try and help others and to create a community.” Robert concluded by describing his mother as a “kind and vulnerable and strong and steadfast human being,” who teaches him daily to persevere “even when it’s so hard to do that.”
A Fan-Favorite Dream: “The Crocodile Hunter” on Broadway?
Beyond his current endeavors, Robert has a captivating aspiration that resonates deeply with his father’s legacy and the desires of the fan community: portraying his dad on Broadway. In an interview with Parade, Robert excitedly envisioned “The Crocodile Hunter on Broadway,” noting, “I mean, bring the spirit of wildlife conservation … to the stage.”
This idea sparked enthusiasm, with his DWTS partner Witney Carson calling it “incredible.” Robert even joked about an “epiphany” at the thought, imagining the cast in “bedazzled khaki uniforms.” This dream highlights not only Robert’s profound connection to his father but also his creative vision for honoring Steve’s enduring impact on the world.
Meanwhile, Russell Crowe’s film Nuremberg, in which he portrays Nazi leader Hermann Göring, is set to arrive in theaters on November 7.
