Terri Irwin marked the 20th anniversary of her husband Steve Irwin's death on Friday, sharing an emotional reflection on the lingering grief and the profound impact of his loss. Steve Irwin, known globally as 'The Crocodile Hunter,' died on September 4, 2006, at the age of 44 in a freak accident.
In an Instagram post, Terri, 62, wrote, "After 20 years, grief still walks with me like my shadow." She noted that while time has brought more perspective, the loss remains a constant presence. Irwin and her children, Bindi, 28, and Robert, 22, continue to uphold his legacy through Australia Zoo and their wildlife conservation efforts.
Irwin's death occurred while he was snorkeling in shallow waters off the coast of Australia, filming the documentary "Ocean's Deadliest." He was struck by a stingray's barb, which pierced his heart. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts by his crew, the injury proved fatal.
Terri also reflected on the final weeks the family spent together before the accident. "We were together as a family, on our crocodile research expedition, for what was to be our final six weeks together," she recalled. "Steve spent time with Bindi and Robert building swings and climbing trees. We all slowed down. Time slowed down." She added, "I believe that all of us, every one of us, gets to say goodbye. We just may not know that we’re saying it. Hold every moment dear with the ones you love. Until we meet again."
Despite rumors and speculation linking her to various public figures, Terri has stated she has no plans to remarry. She told People in 2021 that while flattered by some rumors, her "happily ever after" was with Steve. She reiterated this sentiment to Us Weekly in 2024, stating, "Can you see another Steve Irwin? I just can't."
Both Bindi and Robert shared their own tributes to their father. Bindi posted a video of Steve Irwin discussing her birth, writing, "20 years ago, today, the world lost the most passionate and dedicated wildlife conservationist. Our family lost our superhero." She added, "My mum lost the love of her life; my brother and I lost the greatest dad. Grief never truly leaves us; we walk alongside it every day. Where there is enormous grief, there is even greater love."
Robert shared a video montage of his father, expressing gratitude for the lessons he taught. "Thank you Dad, for showing me and the entire world what it is to truly live. To lead with empathy, to treat every living being how you’d wish to be treated, and to be passionate in everything you do. Your mission and light lives on always," he wrote.
Steve and Terri Irwin expanded a small reptile park, established by his parents in 1970, into the global enterprise of Australia Zoo and their conservation work. "The Crocodile Hunter" television series, which aired from 1996 to 2004, propelled Irwin to international fame. Following his death, Terri has continued to lead Australia Zoo and the Wildlife Warriors non-profit organization, with the support of Bindi and Robert.
Last year, Robert Irwin dedicated a foxtrot performance on "Dancing With the Stars" to his father, an emotional moment that preceded his win of the competition's trophy. He stated at the time, "I carry Dad's legacy with me in everything I do, and it was a privilege to dedicate our foxtrot to him."