Robert Irwin, the 21-year-old son of the late conservationist Steve Irwin, has recently made waves with a daring photoshoot for the Australian underwear brand Bonds. The campaign, aimed at launching the brand in the U.S. market, features Robert posing with a perentie lizard cradled in his arms and a snake wrapped around his bare torso. The images, which showcase both his adventurous spirit and a hint of cheekiness, have certainly captured the attention of fans and critics alike.
In an interview with People, Robert expressed his enthusiasm for the shoot, stating, "I wish I could say I was very suave and cool about the whole thing, but I was like, ‘Yes! Let’s do it!’" His eagerness stems from a desire to embrace new experiences that push him out of his comfort zone. "I’m at this point in my life where I’m trying to do as many different and random exciting things, and if it’s something that makes me a little bit nervous, that I’ve never done before and it’s a bit of an adrenaline rush? That’s what I want to be doing," he added.
The photoshoot has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with fans expressing their astonishment and excitement. Comments ranged from Jenna's enthusiastic "I’M GOING INSANE" to Kyle Borland's realization that the shoot was indeed Robert, saying, "Realising who this was SENT ME." Others, like Brendan, simply commented, "I’m SPEECHLESS GOOD GOD."
In addition to his modeling debut, Robert Irwin is currently co-hosting the Australian version of the reality show I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! alongside comedian Julia Morris. His charm and charisma have made him a beloved figure on television, following in the footsteps of his father, who was famously known as the "Crocodile Hunter."
While he is making headlines for his bold new venture, Robert is also open about his personal life. He revealed that he is single and ready to date, humorously noting, "It’s funny, I’m at this point in my life where I’m like, I’m so open to that, but I’m just waiting for the stars to align." He hopes to find love at the Australia Zoo, just as his sister Bindi met her husband, Chandler, and as his mother, Terri, met Steve Irwin 34 years ago during a visit to the zoo.
Robert's adventurous spirit is not just limited to modeling. He works at the Australia Zoo, where he engages in activities reminiscent of his father’s legacy, such as wrestling crocodiles and handling snakes. He leads daily demonstrations with crocodiles and operates the non-profit charity Wildlife Warriors, which aims to promote animal conservation.
In preparation for the underwear shoot, Robert admitted to cutting down on carbs and increasing his workout routine, particularly focusing on his upper body strength. "I mean, I’ve spent my life wrangling crocs and snakes and rescuing animals," he said. "And so to feature a little slice of that excitement in this new campaign, mate, it has been so much fun. I mean, I’m surrounded by spiders and snakes except [this time] I’m in my undies. That’s the only difference."
Robert Irwin's modeling venture comes at a time when he is also making significant strides in his career. In September 2024, he and South African actress Nomzamo Mbatha were appointed as the first Earthshot Prize Global Ambassadors, a role that underscores his commitment to environmental issues and conservation.
Despite his busy schedule, Robert has managed to maintain a low-profile dating life. He was previously linked to Charlotte Briggs, a fellow Australia Zoo worker, until their relationship ended in February 2025. Robert also dated Rorie Buckley, the niece of the late actor Heath Ledger, for over a year before they parted ways. Sources have indicated that his commitment to his career and the demands of hosting I’m A Celebrity played a role in the breakup.
As Robert continues to carve out his own identity apart from his father's legacy, he remains committed to the principles of conservation and education that Steve Irwin championed. His recent photoshoot for Bonds is just one of many steps he is taking to engage with a broader audience and promote Australian wildlife and culture.
Steve Irwin, who tragically passed away on September 4, 2006, after being pierced by a stingray barb, left behind a powerful legacy of wildlife conservation. His son Robert is determined to honor that legacy while also exploring new avenues in his life and career. With his recent modeling endeavor and continued work at Australia Zoo, Robert is not just following in his father's footsteps but is also paving his own path.
As the world watches Robert Irwin make headlines, one thing is clear: he is not just the son of the Crocodile Hunter; he is a passionate conservationist and entertainer in his own right, ready to take on the world, one adventure at a time.
