Robert Irwin Through the Years: From Wildlife Work to TV Star

Robert Irwin has become a star of his own while carrying on his late father Steve Irwin’s legacy.

Born in December 2003, Robert is the second of Steve and Terri Irwin’s two children. He and his older sister, Bindi Irwin, began following in their parents’ conservationist footsteps from an early age by appearing alongside them on TV and at the famous Australia Zoo.

Robert was only 2 years old when Steve died at age 44 in 2006 following a stingray injury. Not only do the father and son share a strong physical resemblance, but Robert has continued his conservation and wildlife rescue work over the years through photography, on TV and by regularly hosting animal demonstrations at the Australia Zoo.

Like Steve, Robert has also built a strong TV career with appearances on morning and late-night shows, as well as reality shows such as Crikey! It’s the Irwins and I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here! In fall 2025, Robert joined the season 34 cast of Dancing With the Stars and eventually took home the coveted trophy with pro partner Witney Carson. Robert won exactly 10 years after his sister clinched the mirrorball.

Robert paid tribute to Steve while celebrating his 21st birthday in November 2024. “Today I turn 21. I was looking through the archives a few days ago and I found these pictures of my dad on his 21st,” he captioned throwback snaps of his dad via Instagram. “It can be hard to celebrate the milestones when there’s someone missing, but I will carry his memory and passion with me in this new chapter of life. I am one lucky guy to be surrounded by my amazing family today. Time to celebrate!”

Scroll down for a look back at Robert’s biggest moments over the years: