Robert Irwin has opened up about how losing his dad at such a young age shaped how he lives his life as an adult.
Irwin - currently starring on Dancing with the Stars was just two when his dad Steve died tragically, but he hasn’t lost sight of his father’s message.
Steve Irwin left a legacy for more than just his son
Steve Irwin was one of the most beloved figures on TV.
The exuberant Australian ‘crocodile hunter’ loved animals, humans, and life itself.
So, the world was plunged into shock when he was killed in a tragic encounter with a stingray in 2006.
He left behind his wife Terri, daughter Bindi, and son Robert - who is now wowing the audiences in his own right on hit show Dancing with the Stars.
The loss of his father at such a young age has clearly left a mark on the youngest Irwin, but for the trauma, there are also lessons to be had in the infections love for life that his father had, and the joy and happiness that he spread to millions.
In an emotional interview, Robert revealed how he takes the lessons from his father’s sudden death seriously, and doesn’t want to miss a beat in his own life - both on the dance floor and off it.
"I strongly believe that life is too short not to wear your heart on your sleeve," he told the New York Times.
"When you lose someone important early on, it reaffirms the fact that life is so fleeting. You owe it to yourself to find your passion and to pursue it."
Robert has been taking the stage by storm on Dancing with the Stars
Across this season of then show, Robert has proven the critics wrong and won himself a devoted army of fans.
He’s also shown off his vulnerable side, dancing with his mum Terri and breaking down in tears, and collapsing to then floor when images of his late father were projected onto it.
That sensitivity and willingness to show emotion is another lesson from his dad that he carries.
"He was about as traditionally masculine as you can get, and then, at the same time, he was the most vulnerable, emotional, family-oriented, kind human being," he explained.
"That, to me, is the epitome."
Robert, who had no previous dance experience, has been doing well on the show, and he hopes to follow his sister Bindi, who won the coveted Len Goodman Mirror Ball Trophy almost a decade ago.