Robert Irwin has opened up about the challenges he faced growing up without his father Steve, who tragically passed away when Robert was just three years old.
Speaking to GQ Magazine this week, Robert, 20, described the experience as ‘incredibly difficult’ and ‘indescribable.’
‘When you lose someone like that, and it’s such a public thing – you’re three years old, you’re growing up without a father – it’s incredibly difficult,’ he said.
‘It is indescribably difficult.’
Robert also admitted that he was uncomfortable with the fame, describing it as a ‘weird’ feeling and saying it ‘doesn’t make sense’ why the public is so interested with his life.
Robert Irwin, 20, (pictured) has opened up about the challenges he faced growing up without his father Steve, who tragically passed away when Robert was just three years old
Despite the challenges, Robert finds solace and connection with his father through the stories people share with him.
When people approach him to recount their experiences with Steve or express how much his documentaries meant to them, Robert feels like he gains a small piece of his father back.
‘He’s not around anymore to push his message – now it’s my job,’ Robert acknowledged.
Speaking to GQ Magazine this week, Robert described the experience as ‘incredibly difficult’ and ‘indescribable.’ (Robert pictured with his dad at age two)
‘When you lose someone like that, and it’s such a public thing – you’re three years old, you’re growing up without a father – it’s incredibly difficult,’ he said. (Pictured L-R: Mother Terri, Robert, sister Bindi, father Steve)
Robert also admitted that he was uncomfortable with the fame, describing it as a ‘weird’ feeling and saying it ‘doesn’t make sense’ why the public is so interested with his life
Steve tragically died in September 2006 when he was pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while filming a documentary on the Batt Reef in Queensland.
Robert said that every minute he got to spend with his dad ‘was a blessing’.
Robert is now carving his own path in the world of conservation and animal advocacy.
With a combined following of 11 million on TikTok and Instagram, Robert Irwin has become a social media sensation, capturing the hearts of viewers with his genuine charisma and passion for wildlife.
‘He’s not around anymore to push his message – now it’s my job,’ Robert acknowledged
READ MORE: Robert Irwin shares shocking footage of carpet python striking at his face
