Robert Irwin’s heartwarming recreation of late father Steve’s photo

Robert Irwin has hearts melting across the internet after reminiscing about the good times he had with his late dad Steve Irwin.

The 19-year-old wildlife conservationist took to Instagram to share a set of tearjerking photos of himself driving his dad’s old ute.

In the first shot, we see a young Robert sitting on Steve’s lap, tiny hands clenching on the wheel, pretending to drive the old car.

In the second photo, Robert, the now soon-to-be young adult, sits alone in the driver’s seat, both hands holding onto the steering wheel as he looks off into the distance, mirroring his dad in the original photo.

“My dad’s ute… it’s a special car,” Robert’s post began.

“From early memories when Dad would park and let me pretend to drive, to more recently when I took my drivers test in it (and somehow managed not to stall it ).

” I remember my first solo drive in this car after I got my license – it was to the hospital to meet my niece for the first time, right after she was born. And now, the ute still comes on road trips to this day…”

 

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A post shared by Robert Irwin (@robertirwinphotography)

Robert’s post has left many fans touched, with one person writing: “That’s pretty special mate. Would have felt like you were bringing the old man with you to meet the newest Irwin.”

“First time we went to Australia Zoo Steve proudly announced Terri was pregnant with you. He was so happy. We went home to find out I was too,” another added.

While a third commented: “I’m not crying I’ve just got something in my eye”

Despite largely growing up without a father, Robert is a chip off the old block and has worked effortlessly to keep his father’s legacy alive.

During a recent interview with E! News, the environmentalist and photographer spoke about the lasting impact of his dad’s life and how it continues to influence his own journey.

As Robert shared his thoughts, it became clear that the legacy Steve left behind is not simply a memory, but a guiding force that helps shape his worldview and approach to his work.

“I think what dad really showed the world was, 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,” Robert said.

“I think that’s something that I’ll always carry with me.”

Since Steve’s tragic death on September 2006, Robert and older sister, Bindi, have continued to work tirelessly on continuing the legacy that Steve had created at Australia Zoo.