Robert Irwin Fights Back Tears as He Opens Up About Continuing His Father Steve’s Legacy: “It’s an Honour — Every Day, I Just Hope to Make Him Proud”!

Robert Irwin has once again captured hearts around the world after opening up about the powerful influence of his late father, wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin, during an emotional interview with Scott Mills this week.

Now 20 years old, Robert is carving his own path as a TV presenter, photographer, and conservationist — yet every step, he says, is guided by the lessons his father left behind. “It’s an honour to follow in his footsteps,” Robert told Mills, his voice soft but full of pride. “Dad taught me that wildlife conservation isn’t just a job — it’s a way of life. Every day, I try to live up to that.”

The interview aired as part of Robert’s promotional tour for his upcoming U.S. debut as co-host on Dancing With the Stars, where his energy and natural charm have already made him a fan favorite. But when the conversation turned to his father, the tone shifted from excitement to reflection. “He was the greatest teacher I could have ever asked for,” Robert continued. “Even though I was little when he passed, his passion for the natural world is still what drives me.”

Listeners were moved as Robert spoke about growing up at Australia Zoo, the sanctuary his parents built together. “Mum [Terri] has kept Dad’s dream alive in every way possible,” he said. “She’s the heart of everything we do. And Bindi — she’s my best mate. We’re all just trying to make sure Dad’s message lives on.”

During the segment, Mills played a clip from one of Steve Irwin’s early documentaries, The Crocodile Hunter, where Steve could be heard exclaiming, “Isn’t she a beauty!” — a phrase that became his signature. Robert smiled at the sound of his father’s voice, saying, “That never gets old. Every time I hear it, I feel like he’s still here.”

Robert’s commitment to conservation has taken him far beyond Australia Zoo. He recently partnered with international wildlife organizations to promote habitat restoration projects across Africa and Southeast Asia. His work as a photographer has also drawn acclaim, with his images capturing the delicate balance between wildlife and environment — a perspective deeply influenced by Steve’s legacy.

When asked what his father might think of his journey today, Robert paused before answering: “I hope he’d be proud. But more than that, I think he’d just be happy to know the passion lives on — not just in our family, but in everyone he inspired.”

Fans flooded social media with emotional tributes following the interview. “Steve would be smiling from above,” one user wrote. “Robert isn’t just continuing his father’s work — he’s evolving it.”

As the conversation ended, Robert offered a message that summed up his philosophy: “Conservation isn’t about looking back — it’s about moving forward with the same love and respect for nature that Dad showed the world.”

In that moment, it was clear: Steve Irwin’s spirit lives on, not as a memory, but as a mission — one his son proudly carries into the future.