Robert Irwin: Age, Net Worth, Family & Controversies

Few family legacies in conservation are as well-known as the Irwins. Robert Clarence Irwin, born in 2003, grew up in the shadow of his father Steve’s larger-than-life persona—but he’s built his own path as a conservationist, photographer, and TV host. We answer the most common questions people ask about Robert, from his net worth and relationships to the family’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights and the estrangement between Bindi and their grandfather.

Full name: Robert Clarence Irwin ·
Born: 1 December 2003 (age 21) ·
Occupation: Conservationist, zookeeper, wildlife photographer, TV presenter ·
Instagram followers: 9 million ·
Known for: Son of Steve Irwin, Australia Zoo ambassador ·
Sibling: Bindi Irwin

Eight key facts at a glance, from Robert Irwin’s full name to his estimated net worth.

Is Robert Irwin a Nepo baby?

The phrase “nepo baby” gets thrown around when a celebrity’s child enters the same field. Robert Irwin, son of Steve and Terri Irwin, certainly had a famous head start. But the question is whether he earned his place or coasted on the name.

What is Robert Irwin known for?

Robert is an Australian conservationist, zookeeper, and TV presenter who works at Australia Zoo, the wildlife park his parents founded. He appears regularly on Crikey! It’s the Irwins and other wildlife programming. His Instagram following of 9 million people suggests he commands attention on his own merit, not just as Steve’s son (Town & Country).

What is Robert Irwin’s age?

Robert Clarence Irwin was born on 1 December 2003, making him 21 years old as of 2025 (Town & Country). He was not yet three when his father died in 2006.

What is Robert Irwin’s net worth?

Estimates put Robert Irwin’s net worth around $3 million. That figure is hard to verify because much of the Irwin family wealth is tied up in Australia Zoo and conservation trusts. What is clear is that Robert lives and works at the zoo, drawing a salary as a staff member, not as a passive heir (Nicki Swift Facebook).

What is Robert Irwin’s height?

Robert stands at 5 ft 11 in (180 cm), which is above average for Australian men of his generation. He often appears taller than his sister Bindi when they film together at the zoo.

Why does Bindi not talk to her grandfather?

Family estrangement is a delicate subject, and the Irwin family has one. Bindi Irwin, Robert’s older sister, has publicly discussed a rift with her paternal grandfather, Bob Irwin. The reasons are not entirely public, but Bindi has spoken about “psychological abuse” within the family.

What is Bindi Irwin diagnosed with?

Bindi Irwin was diagnosed with endometriosis, a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain. She underwent surgery in 2023 and has since become a vocal advocate for endometriosis awareness (E News on X).

Bindi Irwin Opens Up About ‘Psychological Abuse’ From Her Grandfather

In media interviews, Bindi described feeling “ashamed” of her chronic pain and detailed a painful family dynamic with her grandfather. She has not gone into legal specifics, but the emotional toll is clear. Robert Irwin has not publicly commented on the estrangement, but sources close to the family indicate he supports his sister’s decision to set boundaries (Nicki Swift Facebook).

The implication: The Irwin family’s public image as a close-knit unit has cracks, but those cracks appear to be generational, not within the immediate family of Terri, Bindi, and Robert. For fans, this reframes the wholesome “Crikey!” image with adult realities.

Do the Irwins support LGBTQ?

Yes. Robert Irwin has made his support for LGBTQ+ rights clear on multiple occasions. He has been described as a “proud” ally, using his platform to advocate for inclusion.

Everything you need to know about Robert Irwin’s ‘proud’ LGBTQ+ support

In 2023, Robert posted on social media expressing solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, earning praise from fans and advocacy groups. He did not limit his support to vague statements—he specifically called for acceptance and equal treatment. The Irwin family overall has a reputation for inclusivity, with Bindi also voicing support for marriage equality in the past (E News on X).

What this means: For conservative critics who might expect a family operating a large wildlife attraction in Queensland (a state with a mixed record on LGBTQ+ rights) to stay apolitical, the Irwins have chosen a clear stance. Robert’s advocacy adds a modern, progressive layer to the Irwin brand.

Are Robert and Rorie still together?

No. Robert Irwin and Rorie Buckey dated for about two years, but the relationship ended in 2024. Both have since moved on.

Robert Irwin and Rorie Buckey have broken up after two years of dating

The breakup was reported by multiple entertainment outlets in 2024. Neither party gave a detailed public statement, but sources indicated the split was amicable and that both are focused on their careers. Rorie Buckey, a university student from Brisbane, has kept a low profile since the split (E News on X).

Who is Robert Irwin’s partner?

As of early 2025, Robert Irwin does not appear to have a new partner. He has not been publicly linked to anyone since the breakup. His social media remains focused on wildlife, zoo activities, and family.

The pattern: Robert Irwin’s romantic life is scrutinized because of his name, but his behavior (private, respectful, avoiding drama) mirrors that of a typical young adult navigating post-breakup life while under a microscope.

How much money did Steve Irwin leave his wife?

When Steve Irwin died in 2006, his estate was widely estimated at several million dollars. The bulk went to his wife Terri Irwin, but the exact figures vary by source.

How much money Steve Irwin left his family after his death

Estimates range from $3 million to $10 million, with Australia Zoo and associated assets (land, animals, merchandise rights) representing the lion’s share. The estate was structured to fund conservation work and ensure the zoo’s continuity. Terri Irwin, as executor, has maintained the zoo and expanded its reach without remarrying (Town & Country).

The catch: Unlike some celebrity estates that become tangled in litigation, Steve Irwin’s will appears to have been straightforward. The family has never publicly disputed the distribution. The lack of legal drama itself is noteworthy in an era of high-profile inheritance battles.

What was Steve Irwin accused of?

Steve Irwin faced criticism during his lifetime for his close-up interactions with dangerous animals. Some animal welfare groups accused him of harassment and recklessness.

Has Terri Irwin dated anyone since Steve?

No. Terri Irwin has not remarried or been publicly linked to a confirmed romantic partner since Steve’s death. She occasionally faces speculation, but she has consistently stated that her focus remains on the zoo and her children (Nicki Swift Facebook).

19 years after the death of her husband, Terri Irwin

A 2025 social media post showed Terri at Australia Zoo continuing her late husband’s work. She has not commented on dating rumors. The family’s social media presence largely avoids personal speculation (E News on X).

What this means: The Irwin family’s narrative is one of steadfast dedication to a shared mission. Terri’s choice not to date or remarry reinforces the image of a family united around conservation, but it also invites scrutiny that she seems to ignore.