Nearly two decades after Steve Irwin’s death, his children are once again honoring the legacy of the man the world knew as “The Crocodile Hunter.”
On Saturday, Bindi Irwin and her younger brother, Robert, shared heartfelt tributes on social media to mark what would have been their father’s 64th birthday.
“Happy Birthday, Dad. We miss you so much,” Bindi wrote on Instagram, posting a series of throwback photos. She added that her daughter, Grace, proudly tells people that “Grandpa Crocodile is her guardian angel.” “Love you. Forever,” Bindi concluded.
Robert posted his own message, writing, “Would have been your birthday today. Love you, miss you… thank you for being a guiding light and inspiration every day.”
Supporters quickly filled the comment sections with messages of encouragement and admiration, many noting how strongly Steve Irwin’s passion for wildlife and family continues through his children.
Steve Irwin died in 2006 after being fatally stung by a stingray while filming in the Great Barrier Reef for the documentary series Ocean’s Deadliest. He was 44. At the time, Bindi was 8 years old and Robert just 2. He had been married to Terri Irwin for 14 years.
In the years since, both siblings have carried forward the conservation mission their father championed through Australia Zoo and global wildlife advocacy. They have also built public careers of their own.
Bindi won Season 21 of Dancing with the Stars alongside partner Derek Hough. Robert followed in her footsteps nearly a decade later, winning Season 34 of the show with partner Witney Carson in December.
In a recent interview with Men’s Health, Robert reflected on what it means to represent the legacy his parents built.
“When I step into the ballroom, I’m representing a legacy that my dad created with my mom,” he said. “I’m representing everything I stand for, not only as a wildlife conservationist, but also as someone who is working really hard to try and spread some positivity and passion.”
He described his experience on the show as both intimidating and deeply meaningful, saying he felt embraced by American audiences in a way he hadn’t anticipated.
“It’s impossible to put into words how much that has meant to me,” Robert said, adding that he hopes to serve as a role model for young people.
As the Irwin family continues its conservation work and public outreach, tributes like Saturday’s serve as reminders that Steve Irwin’s larger-than-life enthusiasm for wildlife — and his devotion to family — remains central to the legacy his children proudly uphold
