aking a break from “Dancing With The Stars” rehearsals, Robert Irwin is giving fans a closer glimpse of his personal life. DWTS fan-favorite and the front-runner for the mirrorball trophy, Robert, paid a touching tribute to his late father, Steve Irwin. He shared a carousel of rare photos that captured their shared love of crocodiles.

Terri Irwin Praises Her Son’s Work: ‘I’m So Proud of You’

The 20-year-old Wildlife Warrior reflected on how his passion for conservation began alongside his dad. “This is where my love and fascination of crocodiles began… with my dad,” Robert wrote.

Dad Sings Funny Parody Song While Changing Baby’s Diaper

“He taught us all to appreciate all animals, even the less cuddly ones. These animals play a vital role in the ecosystem, and they are in need of our protection as a keystone species. Crocodile conservation is at the core of our work together, to keep my dad’s legacy alive.”

The post featured heartwarming throwbacks of Robert as a child, standing beside Steve while caring for crocodiles — a bond that continues to define his life’s work.

Robert’s mom, Terri Irwin, responded with her own emotional comment, applauding her son’s dedication to carrying on his father’s legacy.

“I’m so proud of you for continuing your dad’s mission and message of wildlife conservation,” Terri wrote.

“Crocodiles are among our most important apex predators, and your research, rescue, and education work with these saurians is so very important. 🐊”
"The Crocodile Hunter", Steve Irwin,
(Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
“The Crocodile Hunter”, Steve Irwin, poses with a three-foot-long alligator at the San Francisco Zoo on June 26, 2002, in San Francisco, California.
Her words struck a chord with fans who have followed the Irwin family’s mission since Steve’s passing in 2006.

Fans Celebrate Robert’s Bond With His Late Father

Steve Irwin poses with his son Bob
(Photo by Australia Zoo via Getty Images)Steve Irwin poses with his son, Bob, at the Australia Zoo on August 2, 2006, in Beerwah, Australia.
Fans around the world flooded the comments section with love and admiration. “Every person that grew up watching your dad doing amazing things is proud of the man you have become,” one wrote.

Another added, “My goodness, that third photo — I thought it was Steve for a moment. You’re the perfect combination of both parents.”

Many shared how Steve inspired their own love of wildlife. “Your dad is the reason I became a vet tech. His spirit truly lives in you,” one fan commented. Others called Robert “the man who keeps the Crocodile Hunter’s heart beating through every rescue.”

One touching comment read, “Your dad taught that lesson so well. It doesn’t have to be cuddly to be amazing.”

‘Our Wildlife Hospital Continues to Save Lives Every Day’

In another post, Robert shared photos from Australia Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital, where the Irwin family’s conservation efforts continue to thrive.

“Back at home, our Wildlife Hospital continues to save lives every day,” he wrote. “Our dedicated team works 24/7 to rescue and rehabilitate sick, injured, and orphaned animals and then release them back into the wild. Over the years we’ve seen over 160,000 patients come through our doors. Our state-of-the-art facility is a beacon of hope for native wildlife, and it’s at the heart of our conservation work as a whole.”

Through his passion for animals, dedication to conservation, and growing influence, Robert Irwin continues to embody the same fearless compassion that made his father a legend.

As Robert wrote, “Crocodile conservation is at the core of our work together, to keep my dad’s legacy alive.”

Continuing the Legacy Onscreen & Beyond

Alfonso Ribeiro, Terri Irwin, Robert Irwin, Witney Carson
Disney/Eric McCandless
While honoring his father’s conservation work, Robert is also stepping into a new spotlight. Like his sister Bindi Irwin, who won “Dancing With the Stars” Season 21 with Derek Hough at just 17, Robert is now competing for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy alongside pro dancer Witney Carson.

During the show’s Halloween episode, the duo performed an Argentine tango to an instrumental version of “Sweet Dreams Are Made of This,” earning their first perfect 10s from judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli.

Sharing his excitement on Instagram, Robert wrote, “Witney and I have been working hard this week to create something powerful and intense, and I had SO much fun embracing a new side of myself on Halloween night. I’ve never been prouder to be part of #TeamIrWINit, and thank YOU for being on this journey with us.”