Robert Irwin recently experienced a poignant moment while unveiling his wax figure at Madame Tussauds in Sydney, Australia.
Standing alongside the wax figure of his late father, Steve Irwin, for the first time, the 20-year-old conservationist became visibly emotional as he addressed reporters.
“That is amazing,” Robert said in a TikTok video shared by News.com.au on Nov. 28. “It’s the first time in a long time that he’s not just a picture.”
Steve Irwin, the beloved zookeeper and wildlife conservationist, tragically passed away in 2006 at age 44 following a stingray attack.
Reflecting on the moment, Robert shared how impactful it was to see his father in such a lifelike form.
“I didn’t think that was gonna happen, but I was actually quite emotional,” he told the Australian morning show Sunrise.
“For the last 17 years of my life, Dad has been pictures and video, and to actually see him kind of just standing there, it was a lot to take in, and it was a really beautiful thing.”
Robert has dedicated his life to carrying on Steve’s legacy, working alongside his sister Bindi Irwin, 26, to promote wildlife conservation.
The unveiling also marked a milestone for Robert himself, as his own wax figure was introduced.
Dressed in his signature khakis and holding a snake, the figure represents Robert’s work and passion.
“This is one of the most surreal moments of my entire life,” he said during the event.
“This is just incredible. I just keep looking at every little bit going, ‘It’s me! It is me!’ I don’t know if the world is ready for two of me.”
The moment holds profound significance for Robert, as his wax figure is displayed alongside his father’s, which was unveiled in 2015.
“My life’s about continuing his legacy,” Robert noted, “so the fact that I get to be there with him now means a lot.”
This heartfelt tribute serves as a reminder of Steve Irwin’s enduring impact and the unwavering dedication of his family to preserving his memory and mission.
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