Steve Irwin (left) and Robert Irwin.Photo: Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic; Marc Grimwade/WireImage
Robert Irwinis continuing to follow in his late dadSteve Irwin’s footsteps — and hoping to make him proud along the way.
In a recent conversation withE! News, the 18-year-old conservationist opened up about his late father’s legacy and what parts continue to inspire his life today.
“I thinkwhat dad really showed the worldwas, of course, to have that appreciation for the natural world and to treat every living being on this planet as you would wish to be treated,” he said.“I think that’s something that I’ll always carry with me.”
In addition, Robert spoke to Steve’s intentionality in taking risks, as well as pursuing the things in life that were more important to him.
“I think that more than anything, I would hope that I really continue this message that life is short and we have to live every day to the fullest,” he shared.
Newspix/Getty
Robert now works alongside his family at the Australia Zoo to research and rescue animals of all kinds. In addition, Robert has pursued wildlife photography as a passion, often sharing hisprofessional photos on his Instagram.
His work with animals endorses the idea that people should be kind toward all species — just as Steve intended.
“We have to create as much positive change as we can for our environment and for our fellow humans as well. And just to treat one with kindness, and I think he exemplified that perfectly,” Robert added.
In reflecting on the wildlife legend, Robert said he’ll always view Steve as more than just a father. “I’ll always just feel so lucky that I had the most amazing dad in the world, who was literally a superhero,” he said.
RELATED VIDEO: Bindi and Robert Irwin Post Touching Tributes to Late Dad on Steve Irwin Day: ‘I Still Look Up to Him’
His family has continued his legacy in the entertainment area, with daughterBindi Irwin’s show Bindi the Jungle Girl, which aired from 2007 to 2008, and their current series,Crikey! It’s the Irwins, which began airing on Animal Planet in 2018.
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free weekly newsletterto get the biggest news of the week delivered to your inbox every Friday.
source: people.com
