Robert Irwin is facing strong criticism online after a dramatic crocodile-handling moment aired on national television. Some viewers were so alarmed by the footage that they called for him to be “canceled.”
Robert, the son of the late Steve Irwin and Terri Irwin, has been surrounded by wildlife his entire life. Growing up at Australia Zoo, he learned to care for animals from a young age and later became a conservation advocate in his own right. After losing his father at just two years old, he and his family have continued Steve’s mission while also shaping their own roles in wildlife education.
Recently, Robert shared a heartfelt video showing him and his father feeding the same crocodiles 19 years apart. He explained that working at Australia Zoo makes him feel closest to his dad. His mother, Terri, has also expressed confidence in his skills, noting that the same crocodiles that once challenged Steve now challenge Robert in similar ways.
However, a new clip shown during a Today show interview sparked controversy. The video featured Robert inside an enclosure with a large crocodile named Casper. When the animal lunged, Robert was heard shouting, “Bail, bail, bail!” as zoo staff quickly intervened. The tense scene led some viewers to question the safety of the demonstration and even the ethics of keeping crocodiles in captivity.
Critics argued that the display was risky and unnecessary. Others stepped in to defend Robert, saying the demonstrations are well rehearsed and part of long-standing conservation work.
Robert later addressed the incident with humor, noting that safety always comes first. “With a fast, powerful croc like Casper, sometimes you just have to call it,” he wrote.
