Terri Irwin has praised her son Robert for bravely carrying on her late husband Steve’s legacy at this year’s Logie Awards, by mirroring his late dad’s previous appearances and bringing along a snake for the big night.
‘Crocodile Hunter’ Steve famously arrived at the TV Week Logie Awards with an animal in tow on a number of occasions before his tragic death in 2006.
Now, having continued his incredible work at Australia Zoo, his 14-year-old son Robert has recreated his late dad’s appearances by dressing in his signature khaki and carrying a snake round his neck in a moving tribute, as the Logies celebrates its first year at its stunning new venue, the Star casino on the Gold Coast.
With his proud mum Terri behind him, he smiled and stole the limelight on the red carpet, before revealing his pride at being able to follow in his dad’s direct footsteps and present an award.
Robert is presenting the award for Most Outstanding Children’s Program, and told Starts at 60: “I’m really excited and I have my plus one here [the snake]. He’s a beautiful snake, really cool!
“I’m really proud to be here. My dad spent a lot of time at the Logies and he always had wildlife there as well, so it’s great to carry that on.”
Meanwhile, Terri admitted it felt “eerie” watching her son walk in front of the cameras – having been there previously with Steve – but said it’s a fitting and lovely tribute to his memory.
Terri said: “I’m so proud, and it’s kind of eerie too because I was here with his dad, who was in khaki and carrying a snake too – only that one got away! So we’re doing better this time so far!
“I’m very proud of Robert and it’s nice to see the theme go on where Steve left off.”
Speaking about the moment the whole family recently gathered in Hollywood as Steve’s name was printed on a star on the walk of fame, Terri added: “It was so emotional for us all, and a real honour. You’re so focused on how special it is that it’s not until the end where you say ‘oh my God, we don’t deserve to be here, it should be Steve!
“You feel kind of awkward, but we were so moved and it was just beautiful, and so many people came! We sure love him.”
Terri is now focusing on Australia Zoo as they begin filming with Animal Planet in the coming weeks.