Twenty years since Steve Irwin’s death, the Crocodile Hunter still inspires the world

PHILADELPHIA - Twenty years after Steve Irwin’s death, the world still remembers the infectious enthusiasm, fearlessness and deep compassion that made the Australian conservationist a beloved global figure.

Irwin died at age 44 on Sept. 4, 2006, after he was struck by a stingray barb while filming in Australia. His death stunned millions of people who had grown up watching The Crocodile Hunter — but his work never stopped with him.

More than the Crocodile Hunter

The backstory:

Steve Irwin became known around the world for his khaki uniform, his unmistakable "Crikey!" and his ability to make even the most feared animals feel fascinating.

But beneath the big personality was a clear message: Wildlife was not something to fear or exploit. It was something to understand, respect and protect.

Through television, Irwin brought crocodiles, snakes, spiders and other animals into living rooms around the world. He made conservation feel personal and exciting for people who may never have otherwise cared about the natural world.

A conservation mission that continues

Irwin devoted his life to wildlife conservation through Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors, the conservation organization he built with his wife, Terri Irwin.

That work continues today through animal rescue, rehabilitation, habitat protection, conservation projects and education.

The Australia Zoo family has kept Steve’s mission at the center of its work: protecting wildlife and encouraging people to care about the world around them.

Bindi and Robert carry their father’s legacy

Steve and Terri Irwin’s children have grown up in the public eye while continuing the conservation work their father championed.

Bindi Irwin won season 21 of Dancing with the Stars with Derek Hough in 2015. Ten years later, Robert Irwin and professional partner Witney Carson won season 34 and the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.

Their victories gave the siblings another platform to introduce themselves to audiences who may not have grown up watching The Crocodile Hunter. Both have continued to use that attention to share their family’s love for animals and conservation.

Why Steve Irwin still matters

Two decades later, Steve Irwin remains a cultural touchstone because he made people feel something.

He could be funny, loud and larger than life, but he was never dismissive of the animals he encountered. His excitement came from genuine wonder — and that wonder was contagious.

For generations of viewers, Steve Irwin was the person who showed that caring about wildlife could be joyful. Twenty years later, his family, Australia Zoo and countless people inspired by his work are still carrying that message forward.

News