Robert Irwin celebrates his 21st birthday with moving tribute to father Steve Irwin: ‘I carry his memory with me’
Robert Irwin has shared an emotional tribute to his father Steve as he celebrated his 21st birthday.
On Instagram on Sunday, the wildlife warrior posted a touching photo of his father celebrating his own milestone birthday decades ago.
The image shows Steve, a fresh-faced young man, cutting a vibrant birthday cake while surrounded by family.
In the caption, Robert expressed the bittersweet nature of his special day and admitted that it’s difficult to celebrate milestones without his father by his side.
“Today I turn 21. I was going through the archives a few days ago and found these photos of my dad at 21,” he began.
“It can be difficult to celebrate the milestones when someone is missing, but I will carry his memory and passion with me into this new chapter of life.”
Robert Irwin has shared an emotional tribute to his father Steve as he celebrated his 21st birthday
On Instagram, the nature warrior posted a moving photo of his father Steve celebrating his own 21st birthday decades ago
Robert continued to express his gratitude for his family’s support, saying, “I’m a lucky guy to be surrounded by my wonderful family today. Time to celebrate!’
The heartfelt post sparked an outpouring of love from fans and family alike, with his sister Bindi Irwin leaving a touching comment.
“Daddy is so proud of you,” she wrote.
Fans also flooded the comments with birthday wishes and praise for the way Robert is honoring his father’s memory.
“Steve would be so proud of you Robert,” one follower wrote, while another added: “You are a shining example of your father’s legacy. Congratulations!’
The message resonated deeply with fans of the Irwin family, who have followed their journey since the tragic loss of Steve in 2006.
Known as ‘The Crocodile Hunter’, Steve’s legacy continues to inspire millions, carried on by Robert, Bindi and their mother, Terri.
Robert, who followed in his father’s footsteps as a passionate conservationist and photographer, grew up in the public eye.
Known as ‘The Crocodile Hunter’, Steve’s legacy continues to inspire millions, continued by Robert, Bindi and their mother, Terri
Steve died on September 4, 2006 after being pierced in the chest by a short-tailed stingray while filming in the Great Barrier Reef with Philippe Cousteau Jr.
Robert was only two years old at the time, while Bindi was eight.
A private funeral service was held on September 9 and Steve was buried later that same day in a private ceremony at the Australia Zoo.
On September 30, a public memorial service was held at the Australia Zoo’s 5,500-seat Crocoseum, and was broadcast live to an estimated audience of more than 300 million people.
