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{{Infobox Celebrity
| name = Steve Irwin
| image = Steve Irwin.jpg
| caption =
| birth_date = ] ]
| birth_place = ], ], ]
| death_date = ], ]
| death_place = ], ]
| occupation = ]
| spouse = ]
| children = 2
| website =
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}}
'''Stephen Robert Irwin''' (] ] &ndash; ] ]) was an
]n ], wildlife expert and television personality. He was best known for the
television program '']'', an unconventional ]
series broadcast worldwide and co-hosted with his wife ]. He was also owner and operator of ], in ].


'''Stephen Robert "Steve" Irwin''' (] ] - ] ], died off the Low Isles at Port Douglas filming an underwater documentary, ] ] ]) was the owner and manager of the ] at Beerwah, ], Australia. He was best known as '']'', which was the name of the unconventional nature ] series on television he hosts, assisted by his American-born wife, ]. His larger-than-life persona and seemingly outrageous antics (including the close handling of both common and rare species of wildlife and, perhaps most famously, the capture of live crocodiles and other reptiles on-screen) are key features in the presentation, which provides a forum for educational information about wildlife conservation and conflicts with humans in various parts of the world. The program has made the Irwins television personalities on several continents.
==Early Years==
Born to Lyn and Bob Irwin in ], a suburb of ], ], Irwin moved with his parents as a child to Queensland in 1970. Bob Irwin was a reptile enthusiast and when the family moved, Bob and Lyn Irwin started the small Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park, where Steve grew up around ]s and other reptiles.


Steve Irwin reportedly died in an accident involving a stingray in the Batt Reef, near Cairns in Australia .
Irwin became involved with the park in a number of ways, including taking part in daily animal feedings, as well as care and maintenance activities. On his sixth birthday he was given a scrub python. He began handling crocodiles at the age of nine, after his father had educated him on reptiles from an early age.<ref>{{cite news | title =Biography: Steve Irwin | url =http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20350280-601,00.html | | work =] | publisher =News Limited | date = ] 2006| accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref> He became a crocodile ], removing crocodiles from near populated areas, performing the service for free with the '']'' that he kept them for the park. Irwin followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a volunteer for the Queensland Government's East Coast Crocodile Management program.


==Career== ==Biography==
Born in the ] area, Steve Irwin moved with his parents as a child to Queensland. His parents, Bob and Lyn, ran the small Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park, where Steve grew up around ]s and other reptiles. He became a crocodile ], removing crocodiles from near populated areas, performing the service for free with the '']'' that he kept them for the park. As a child, he had a negative encounter with a ], and still retains some fear of parrots.
===Rise to fame===
The park was a family run business until it was turned over to Irwin in 1991. He took over the running of the park, now called ], and in 1992 met (at the park) and married Terri. The footage, shot by ], of their crocodile-trapping ] became the first episode of '']'', which became wildly successful in the United States and the UK. His exuberant and enthusiastic presenting style, broad Australian accent, constant wearing of ] and catch-phrase "Crikey!" became known worldwide: '']'' aired in over 120 countries.<ref>
{{cite news |first = Sandra |last = Lee | author = |title = Wild Thing |url = http://www.usaweekend.com/00_issues/000618/000618croc_hunter.html |publisher = USA Weekend Magazine |date = ] |accessdate = 2006-09-04 }}</ref>


In 1991, he took over the running of the park, now renamed the "Australia Zoo", and in 1992 met (at the park) and married Terri. The footage, shot by ], of their crocodile-trapping ] became the first episode of ''The Crocodile Hunter'', which became wildly successful in America.
Under Irwin's expansive leadership, the operations grew to include the zoo, the television series, the Steve Irwin Conservation Foundation, and International Crocodile Rescue. Improvements to the Australia Zoo include the Animal Planet Crocoseum, the rainforest aviary, and Tiger Temple. Irwin mentioned that he was considering opening an Australia Zoo in ] and possibly other sites around the world.


In 2001, Steve appeared in a cameo role in the ] film ]. In 2002, his first feature film, '']'', was released. In general, reviews of this film were negative. However, in 2003, Irwin was reportedly in line to host a ] on Australian network television.
===Film===
INCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILS
In 2001, Irwin appeared in a cameo role in the ] film '']''. In 2002, his first and only feature film '']'' was released. In general, reviews of this film were negative. Irwin portrayed himself, in addition to performing numerous stunts for the film. The film follows Irwin who mistakes some ] agents for poachers. He sets out to stop them from capturing a crocodile, who, unknown to him, has actually swallowed a tracking drone. The film won the Best Family Feature Film award for a comedy film at the ]. The film was produced on a budget of about $12 million, and has grossed over $28 million (as of September 2006).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=crocodilehunter.htm |title=The Crocodile Hunter:Collision Course |accessmonthday=] |accessyear= 2006 |work=] |publisher=Box Office Mojo, LLC}}</ref><!-- presumably US$ --> In 2003 Irwin was reportedly in line to host a ] on Australian network television, a series that never went into production.
The Irwins have two children: a daughter, Bindi Sue Irwin (born ] ]), and a son, Robert (Bob) Clarence Irwin (born ] ]). Their dog, Sui, from which their daughter's middle name was derived, died in June 2004.
INCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILSINCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILSINCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILSINCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILS
Under Steve's expansive leadership, the operations have grown to include the zoo, the television series, The Steve Irwin Conservation Foundation, and International Crocodile Rescue. Improvements to his Australia Zoo include the Animal Planet Crocoseum, the rainforest aviary, and Tiger Temple.


Major controversy arose during a public show on ] ], when Irwin carried his infant son, Bob, in one arm while feeding a chicken carcass to a crocodile with the other hand. The infant was close to the crocodile, and comparisons were made in the press with ]'s dangling of his son outside a German apartment window. In addition, child welfare groups, ] groups, and many of Irwin's television viewers criticised his actions as being irresponsible and tantamount to ]. Irwin claimed that any danger to his son was only a perceived danger and that he was in complete control of the situation, and has consistently refused to apologize for his actions despite considerable public outcry both in Australia and abroad. His defenders pointed to his several decades of hands-on experience and direct interaction with crocodiles. Terri Irwin claimed that their child was in no more real danger than a child being taught to swim would be. No charges were filed (although the police did visit Irwin at his home and advised him not to repeat the incident).
===Animal Planet===
] released a "Crocodile Hunter" special called "Crocodiles & Controversy," which attempted to explain some incidents behind Irwin's controversies. This special argues that Irwin's son was never in danger of being eaten by the crocodile, and that Irwin could not have endangered animals in Antarctica.


Animal Planet ended ''The Crocodile Hunter'' with a series finale entitled "Steve's Last Adventure." The last Crocodile Hunter documentary went for three emotional hours with footage of Irwin's across-the-world adventure, visiting locations like the ], the ], ], and the ]. Irwin went on to star in other Animal Planet documentaries, including '']'', '']'', and '']''. Irwin went on to star in other ] documentaries, including ], ], and ].


In June 2004, Irwin again was the subject of controversy when allegations were made that he came too close to and disturbed some wildlife (namely ], ] and ]) while filming a documentary in ]. Interacting with Antarctic wildlife in a disapproved manner may be a breach of Australian federal and ]s. Subsequently, the matter was closed without charges being filed.
===Later projects===
].]]
In January 2006 as part of ''Australia Week'' celebrations in the USA, Irwin appeared at the ], ] in ], ]. During an interview on '']'', Irwin announced that ] would be developing a show for his daughter, Bindi Sue.<ref>'']'', ] ].</ref> The show, '']'', was tipped to be similar to ] movies, with songs that surround a story. A feature-length episode of Australian kids TV show '']'' entitled "Wiggly Safari" appears dedicated to Irwin, and he's featured in it heavily with his wife and daughter. The show includes the song "Crocodile Hunter, Big Steve Irwin".


Animal Planet then released a Crocodile Hunter special called "Crocodiles & Controversy", which attempted to explain both the "Baby Bob Incident" and the Antarctica incident. This special argues that Irwin's son was never in danger of being eaten by the crocodile and that Irwin could not have endangered animals in Antarctica.
In 2006, the American network ] had begun to show a series of specials starring Irwin and his family as they traveled on cross-country tours.


Eventually Animal Planet ended ''The Crocodile Hunter'' with a series finale entitled "Steve's Last Adventure". The last Crocodile Hunter documentary went for three emotional hours with footage of Steve's across-the-world adventure, visiting locations like the ], the ], Borneo, and the ].
Irwin was an open supporter of the conservative ]. In particular, he strongly supported the incumbent ] ], describing him once as "the greatest leader Australia has ever had" and the "greatest leader in the entire world"; comments which drew a cynical reaction in the national media.<ref>
].]]
{{cite news |first = Miranda |last = Devine |author = |coauthors = |title = Crikey! Praise for PM puts you in a snake pit |url = http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/11/08/1068243301741.html |format = |work = |publisher = The Sun-Herald |pages = |page = |date = ] |accessdate = 2006-09-04 |language = }}</ref>
In January 2006 as part of ''Australia Week'' celebrations in the USA, Steve appeared at the ], ] ], ]. During an interview on '']'', Steve announced that ] will be developing a show for his daughter, Bindi Sue.<ref>'']'', ] ].</ref> The show, '']'', was tipped to be similar to ] movies, with songs that surround a story. A feature-length episode of Australian kids TV show '']'' entitled "Wiggly Safari" appears dedicated to Steve, and he features in it heavily with his wife and daughter. The show includes the song "Crocodile Hunter, Big Steve Irwin".


On Saturday June 24, 2006, one of the oldest turtles living in Steve Irwin's Australian Zoo, died of heart failure. The turtle, named Harriet, was 176 years old and was considered part of Irwin's family. Harriet was thought to have belonged to ].
===Media work===
]
Irwin was also involved in several media campaigns. He was employed by the ] to promote Australia's strict ]/customs requirements, with advertisements and posters featuring slogans such as, "Quarantine Matters! Don't muck with it" .


Steve Irwin was active in politics and was a supporter of the conservative ]. In particular, he strongly supported the incumbent Prime Minister ].
In 2004 he was appointed ambassador for ], an ] to ] train that began operations in 2004. For some time he was sponsored by ], in keeping with his rugged outback image.<ref>: Crikey! Steve Irwin loves his Toyotas! </ref>


On the 4th of September 2006, Steve Irwin was killed by a Stingray barb that punctured his chest, whilst filming a documentary on Batt reef, Queensland.
He was also a keen promoter for Australian tourism in general and Queensland tourism in particular. In 2002 the ] was voted Queensland's top tourist attraction.<ref name=Murdoch>{{cite news | first =Anna | last =King Murdoch |title =He's smart, by crikey | url =http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2003/06/09/1055010919523.html | work =The Age | publisher = The Age Company Ltd | date = ] 2003| accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref> His immense popularity in the US meant he often promoted Australia as a tourist destination there.<ref name=Elliot>{{cite news | first =Geoff | last =Elliot | title =Keep it simple, mate | work =] | publisher =News Limited | date = ] 2006}}</ref>


=='''The Crocodile Hunter Documentaries'''==
===Honours===
The following is a list of Crocodile Hunter documentaries and episodes, ordered by number
In 2001 Irwin was awarded the ] for his "service to global conservation and to Australian tourism".<ref></ref> In 2004 he was recognised as Tourism Export of the Year.<ref>, copy of ] article, originally published 10th December, 2004.</ref>
* The Crocodile Hunter
Also in 2004, he was nominated for ], which was won by ]. Doubts were cast over his nomination when the "baby Bob" incident occurred in January that year.<ref>{{cite news |title = Irwin defends stunt |url = http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/01/05/1073267964997.html |publisher = Sydney Morning Herald |date = ] |accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref>
* The Crocodile Hunter Part Two
* The Crocodile Hunter Part Three
* The Crocodile Hunter Goes West Part One
* The Crocodile Hunter Goes West Part Two
* The Crocodile Hunter - Traveling The Dingo Fence Part One
* The Crocodile Hunter - Traveling The Dingo Fence Part Two
* The Crocodile Hunter - Suburban Killers
* The Crocodile Hunter - Return To The Wild
* The Crocodile Hunter - Africa's Deadliest Snakes
* The Crocodile Hunter - Dangerous Africans
* The Crocodile Hunter - Dangerous Americans
* The Crocodile Hunter - Spitting Cobras Of The World
* The Crocodile Hunter - Surfing Snakes
* The Crocodile Hunter - Ghosts Of War
* The Crocodile Hunter - A Handful Of Elephants
* The Crocodile Hunter - Wild River Of Africa
* The Crocodile Hunter - Faces In The Forest
* The Crocodile Hunter - Island Of Time
* The Crocodile Hunter - Steve & The Dragon
* The Crocodile Hunter - Australia's Wild Frontier
* The Crocodile Hunter - Crocodiles Of The Revolution
* The Crocodile Hunter - Graham's Revenge
* The Crocodile Hunter - Bunya Rescue
* The Crocodile Hunter - Zoo Evolution
* The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Story
* The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Most Dangerous Adventures
* The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Greatest Crocodile Captures
* The Crocodile Hunter - Captured On Camera
* The Crocodile Hunter - Wildest Home Videos
* The Crocodile Hunter - Big Croc Diaries
* The Crocodile Hunter - River Of The Damed
* The Crocodile Hunter - Crocs In The City
* The Crocodile Hunter - Penguins In The City
* The Crocodile Hunter - Island Of Snakes
* The Crocodile Hunter - Whale Shales Of The Wild West
* The Crocodile Hunter - Phantoms Of The Rainforest
* The Crocodile Hunter - Alligators In Love
* The Crocodile Hunter - They Shoot Crocodiles Don't They
* The Crocodile Hunter - Leopards Of The Himalayas
* The Crocodile Hunter - Africa's Big Five
* The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Singapore Safari
* The Crocodile Hunter - Adventure With David Attenborough
* The Crocodile Hunter - Ice Breaker
* The Crocodile Hunter - Crocodiles & Controversy
* The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Last Adventure - Series Final


'''The Crocodile Hunter Diaries Episodes'''
===Environmentalism===
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Steve's Birthday
Irwin was a passionate ] and believed in promoting ] by sharing his excitement about the natural world rather than preaching to people. He was concerned with conservation of ] and ] leading to loss of habitat. He considered conservation to be the most important part of his work: "I consider myself a wild-life warrior. My mission is to save the world's endangered species."<ref name=Murdoch/> Irwin bought "large tracts of land" in ], ], ] and the ], which he described as "like ]s" and stressed the importance of people realising that they could each make a difference.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.abc.net.au/tv/enoughrope/transcripts/s960998.htm |title=ENOUGH ROPE with Andrew Denton - episode 30: Steve Irwin |accessmonthday= ] | accessyear= 2006|author=Denton, Andrew |authorlink=Andrew Denton |coauthors=Irvine, Steve |date= ] |work= |publisher=] }}</ref>
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Dancing With Devils
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - New Zoo
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - New Arrivals
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Wild Boys, Wild Crocs
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Girls Catch Crocs Too
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Mateship
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - John Farnham's Holiday
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Operation Sui
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Mary's Farewell
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Wiggly Safari (featuring ])
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Kelly's Big Day
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Celebrities & Practical Jokes
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Wild About Harry
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Celebrities & Practical Jokes 2
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Backstage Bedlam
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Behind 'Croc Live'
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Celebrities & Practical Jokes 3
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Crocoseum
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Elephants Down Under
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Tigers Live
* The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Last Entry - Series Final


==Trivia==
He had urged people to take part in considerate tourism and not support illegal ] through the purchase of items such as turtle shells, or ]:{{Cquote2|These Hitlers use the camouflage of science to make money out of animals... So whenever they murder our animals and call it sustainable use, I'll fight it. Since when has killing a wild animal, eating it or wearing it, ever saved a species?
* Steve Irwin was a fan of the ] and considers it and the ] as "sister zoos". <ref>{{cite web|title=Singapore Sling!|work=International Crocodile Rescue|url=http://www.crocodilerescue.com/singapore.html|accessdate=16 March|accessyear=2006}}</ref>
<P>
* Steve loves mixed martial arts competitions and trains with Greg Jackson in the fighting/grappling system of ].
There are people who butt out their cigarettes in gorilla-paw ashtrays, with wastepaper baskets that were once elephant feet, who have ivory ornaments… who wear cheetah fur. Don't buy these things! Then there'll be no market and the animals won't be killed.
* Irwin appears in a 2006 ] television commercial in their ] series. In the commercial, he wrestles the Gator mascot of the ] to the ground in an ESPN studio hallway.
<P>
* A parody of Steve and Terri forms one of the themes of '']''
We have domesticated livestock raised for consumption and perfectly good fake leather and fur, so why must we kill wild animals to satisfy the macabre taste of some rich person?<ref>, copy of an article from '']'', August 2006.</ref>}}
* Australian comedian ]' ] was an obvious parody of the Crocodile Hunter.
He founded the Steve Irwin Conservation Foundation, which was later renamed ], and became an independent ]. He was described after his death by the ] of ] Queensland as a "modern-day ]", and ] naturalist ] lauded his skills as a ] and media performer.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://today.reuters.com/News/CrisesArticle.aspx?storyId=SP68982 |title=Australia stunned by death of "modern-day Noah" |accessmonthday=] |accessyear=2006 |last=Tait |first=Paul |date= ] |work=Reuters.com |publisher=Reuters}}</ref> Irwin discovered a new species of turtle that now bears his name, '']'' &mdash; Irwin's Turtle &mdash; a type of ] found on the coast of Queensland. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.deh.gov.au/cgi-bin/abrs/fauna/details.pl?pstrVol=REPTILIA;pstrTaxa=3312;pstrChecklistMode=1 |title=Elseya irwini |accessmonthday=] |accessyear=2006 |work=Australian Faunal Directory |publisher=Department of the Environment and Heritage, Commonwealth of Australia }}</ref>


==References==
He also helped to found a number of other projects, such as the ], as well as the Lyn Irwin Memorial Fund, in memory of his mother, with proceeds going to the ].
<references />


<!-- FUTURE EDITORS: The two news story links below may become non-functional in the near future, as SMH will soon be requiring users to register and login to read news stories. -->
==Media image==
Irwin cultivated an image as an "Aussie ]", making liberal use of ] (such as his catchcry, "Crikey!") in a very broad ]. His unabashed enthusiasm for dangerous animals and childlike energy sometimes made him appear simple, which initially drew some criticism at home. He expressed disappointment at times for media criticism, believing he was being targeted due to a ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3786548a12,00.html |title=Cultural cringe irked Irwin |accessmonthday=] |accessyear=2006 |last=Tourelle |first=Greg |date=] |work=stuff.co.nz | publisher=Fairfax New Zealand Ltd }}</ref>

Regardless of local opinion, his media personage was very popular worldwide but especially in the ], akin to another great international Australian success — ] as "]" in the 1980s.<ref name=Elliot/>

His friends and family often reported that he was to them as he was to the rest of the world — larger than life.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/austory/content/2003/s949278.htm |title=Australian Story What Lies Beneath Transcript |accessmonthday=] |accessyear=2006 |last=Crowe |first=Russell |authorlink= |coauthors=Irwin, Steve |date=] |publisher=]}}</ref>

Due to his memorable persona, numerous parodies of Irwin exist, including appearances in '']'', '']'', '']'', the ] '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', the ] ], and ] of '']'' episode, among others.

==Personal life==
===Family===
In 1992, Irwin married ] from ], ], in the United States. The pair had met a few months earlier when Terri had visited the zoo on a holiday. Together they had two children: a daughter, Bindi Sue Irwin (born ] ]), and a son, Robert Clarence "Bob" Irwin (born ] ]). Bindi Sue is jointly named after two of Steve's favourite animals: Bindi, a ], and Sui, a dog that died in June 2004.

Irwin was as enthusiastic about his family as he was about his work. He once described his daughter Bindi as "the reason he was put on the Earth". His wife Terri once said, "The only thing that could ever keep him away from the animals he loves are the people he loves even more."<ref name=King>{{cite web|url=http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0411/25/lkl.01.html |title=LARRY KING LIVE Interview With Steve Irwin |accessmonthday= ]|accessyear=2006 |last=King |first=Larry |authorlink=Larry King |coauthors=Irvine, Steve |date=] |work=CNN |publisher=Cable News Network LP, LLLP}}</ref>

===Controversy===
Major controversy arose during a public show on ] ], when Irwin carried his infant son, Bob, in one arm while feeding a chicken carcass to a crocodile with the other hand. The infant was close to the crocodile, and comparisons were made in the press to ]'s dangling of his son outside a German hotel window. In addition, child welfare groups, ] groups, and many of Irwin's television viewers criticised his actions as being irresponsible and tantamount to ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/3364733.stm |title=Inquiry into croc baby stunt |accessmonthday=] |accessyear=2006 ||date=] |work=bbc.co.uk |publisher=]}}</ref> Irwin claimed that any danger to his son was only a perceived danger and that he was in complete control of the situation, and consistently refused to apologise for his actions despite considerable public outcry both in Australia and abroad. His defenders pointed to his many decades of hands-on experience and direct interaction with crocodiles, as well as his well-known devotion to his responsibilities as a father. Terri Irwin claimed that their child was in no more real danger than a child being taught to swim would be. No charges were filed (although the police did visit Irwin at his home and advised him not to repeat the incident).<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/01/04/1073151212433.html | title = Croc hunter ducks for cover | first = Claire | last = O'Rourke | publisher = ] | date = ] |accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref>

The incident prompted the Queensland government to change its crocodile-handling laws, banning children and untrained adults from entering crocodile enclosures.<ref>{{cite news |first = |last = |author = |coauthors = |title = Steve Irwin baby concerns prompt law change |url = http://www.smh.com.au/news/National/Steve-Irwin-baby-concerns-prompt-law-change/2005/02/23/1109046983142.html |format = |work = |publisher = Sydney Morning Herald |pages = |page = |date = ] |accessdate = 2006-09-04 |language = }}</ref> In June 2004, allegations were made that he came too close to and disturbed some wildlife (namely ], ] and ]s) while filming a documentary, ''Ice Breaker'', in ].<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2004/06/14/1087065037593.html | title = Crocodile Hunter's frolic with whales gets frosty reception | first = Karen | last = Middleton | publisher = ] | date = ]|accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref> Subsequently, the matter was closed without charges being filed.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/3896685.stm | title = Irwin cleared after Penguin Probe | publisher = ] | date = ] |accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref>

==Death==
Shortly after 11:00&nbsp;am ] on ], ], Irwin was fatally pierced in the chest by a ] barb while diving in ]'s ] (which is part of the ]), off the coast of ]. The events were caught on ] and the footage is now in the possession of ].<ref name=AustNews>{{cite news|first = Ian|last = Gerard|coauthors = and Koch, Tony|title = Steve Irwin's freak death filmed|url = http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20355112-601,00.html|publisher = The Australian|date = ]|accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref> Irwin was in the area filming his own documentary, to be called ''The Ocean's Deadliest'', but weather had stalled filming. Irwin decided to take the opportunity to film some shallow water shots for a segment in the ] his daughter Bindi was hosting,<ref name="theage_croc_hunter">{{cite news | title = Croc Hunter Irwin killed by stingray | publisher = THE AGE | date = ] | url = http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/Croc-Hunter-Steve-Irwin-died-instantly/2006/09/04/1157222051588.html| accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref> when, according to his friend and colleague ], he swam too close to one of the animals. "He came on top of the stingray and the stingray's barb went up and into his chest and put a hole into his heart," said Stainton, who was on board Irwin's boat at the time.

After reviewing the footage of the incident and speaking to the cameraman who recorded it, marine documentary filmmaker and fisherman ] speculated that the ] "felt threatened because Steve was alongside and there was the cameraman ahead..."<ref name=AustNews /> In such a case, the stingray responds by automatically flexing the serrated barb on its tail up to a ] of 25 ] (10 ]) of length.

"He came over the top of a stingray that was buried in the sand, and the barb came up and hit him in the chest," Stainton said. Cropp said Irwin had accidentally boxed the animal in. "It stopped and twisted and threw up its tail with the spike, and it caught him in the chest. It's a defensive thing. It's like being stabbed with a dirty dagger." The stinging of Irwin by the ] that was "a one-in-a-million thing," Cropp told ] magazine. "I have swum with many rays, and I have only had one do that to me."<ref name=CNN>{{cite news |title='Crocodile Hunter' Steve Irwin dead |url=http://www.cnn.com/2006/SHOWBIZ/TV/09/04/australia.irwin/index.html|publisher=] |date=] |accessdate=2006-09-04 }}</ref> In this case, the motion struck Irwin's chest and pierced his heart.<ref name=AustNews /> Crewmembers aboard his boat called emergency services in the nearest city of ] and administered ] as they rushed the boat to nearby Low Isle to meet a rescue helicopter. Medical staff pronounced Irwin dead when they arrived a short time later.<ref name=usatoday1>{{cite news |title=Stingray kills 'Crocodile Hunter' |url=http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2006-09-04-obit-irwin_x.htm?POE=NEWISVA |work=] |publisher=] |date=] |accessdate=2006-09-04 }}</ref> The barb lodged in his chest and the toxins of the barb caused Irwin to die of ].<ref>{{cite news |last=Collins |first=Glenn |title=Stingray Attack Kills Australia’s ‘Crocodile Hunter’ |url=http://www.nytimes.com/2006/09/04/world/04cnd-irwin.html?hp&ex=1157428800&en=e595418a474cbe40&ei=5094&partner=homepage |publisher=] |date=] |accessdate=2006-09-04 }}</ref>

This was only the third known fatality in Australian history from a stingray attack, only 17 worldwide fatalities have taken place since 1996, and it is believed to be the only fatal attack ever captured on film.<ref>{{cite news
|title = Stingray Deaths Rare and Agonizing
|url = http://www.cnn.com/2006/WORLD/asiapcf/09/04/australia.irwin.stingray.reut/index.html
|publisher = ]
|work = ].com
|date = ]
|accessdate = 2006-09-04
}}</ref>
===Reaction===
The ] notified his family and released a statement for the media concerning his death.<ref>{{cite press release | title =Australian wildlife personality Steve Irwin has died | publisher =Queensland Police Service, Media and Public Affairs Branch | date =] 2006 | url =http://www.police.qld.gov.au/News+and+Alerts/Media+Releases/2006/09/Australian+wildlife+personality+Steve+Irwin+has+died.htm | accessdate = }}</ref>
News of his death prompted a public outpouring expressing shock and loss. Several Australian news websites went down because of high web traffic<ref>{{cite news |last=Richards |first=David |url=http://www.smartofficenews.com.au/Communication/Broadband?article=/Communication/Broadband/News/T7C2P3F8 |title=Smart Office News: Steve Irwin Not The Only One To Die |date=] ] |accessdate=2006-09-04 }}</ref> and talk-back radio experienced a high volume of callers expressing their grief,<ref>
{{cite news |first = Richard |last = Fidler |title = Tributes flow for Steve Irwin |url = http://www.abc.net.au/brisbane/stories/s1732538.htm |publisher = 612 ABC radio |date = ] |accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref> commemorating his passion and exuberance. ] ], among many other politicians, expressed his "shock and distress" at the death, saying that "Australia has lost a wonderful and colourful son."<ref>
{{cite news |first = |last = |title = Irwin brought joy to millions: PM |url = http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,20867,20350650-5006786,00.html |publisher =] |date =] |accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref> Irwin's body was flown to a morgue in Cairns,<ref>
{{cite news |first = |last = |title = Crocodile Hunter's Steve Irwin dies at 44 |url = http://www.speroforum.com/site/article.asp?idCategory=33&idsub=128&id=5264&t=Crocodile+Hunter's+Steve+Irwin+dies+at+44 |publisher = Spero News |date = ] |accessdate = 2006-09-04}}</ref> where stunned family and friends were gathering on Monday night. His wife Terri was informed of her husband's death while on a walking tour in the ] in ], and returned via private plane from ] to the ] with their two children.<ref name=AustNews />

] ] commented (in an interview shown on television) that Steve Irwin was a lovely person who was a great ambassador for Queensland and Australia.

The U.S. feed of the ] cable television channel premièred a special tribute to Steve Irwin at 6:00&nbsp; pm EST on Monday, ] ]. The president of the Discovery Network, Billy Campbell, released a statement, saying:<ref name=animal1>{{cite press release |last=Campbell |first=Billy |url=http://animal.discovery.com/fansites/crochunter/steve/statement.html?clik=netmain_feat1 |title=Discovery Communications, Inc. Mourns Tragic Loss of Steve Irwin |publisher=Discovery Communications |date=] ] |accessdate=2006-09-04 }}</ref>
{{cquote|Our entire company is deeply saddened by the tragic and sudden loss of Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter. Steve was beloved by millions of fans and animal lovers around the world and was one of our planet's most passionate conservationists. He has graced our air since October 1996 and was essential in building Animal Planet into a global brand.}}

The Animal Planet will rename the garden space in front of Discovery's world headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland, to the "Steve Irwin Memorial Sensory Garden." They are also looking at the creation of the Steve Irwin Crocodile Hunter Fund, which they will call "The Crikey Fund" which will "allow people from across the globe to make contributions in Steve's honour to support wildlife protection, education and conservation."<ref name=animal1 />

== Trivia ==
* Irwin was a great fan of the ], which he considered a sister institution of the ].<ref>{{cite web|title=Singapore Sling!|work=International Crocodile Rescue|url=http://www.crocodilerescue.com/singapore.html|accessdate=16 March|accessyear=2006}}</ref>
* Irwin loved ] competitions and trained with Greg Jackson in the fighting/grappling system of ].
* Irwin appeared in a 2006 ] television commercial in their ] series. In the commercial, he wrestled ], the ]'s mascot, to the ground in an ESPN studio hallway.
* In 2004, during an interview with ], he admitted that after receiving many painful bites he had a fear of parrots.<ref name=King/>
* Irwin was a fan of the ] in the ], Essendon being where he grew up as a child. Irwin made several appearances with players and was part of an ] promotion in Los Angeles as part of Australia week in early 2006.<ref>http://www.australia-week.com/page/AFLMatchSteveIrwinShow</ref><ref>http://essendonfc.com.au/images/02/ch5.jpg</ref>

== References ==
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==External links== ==External links==
*Steve and Terri's website called The Crocodile Hunter
{{wikinewsart|Crocodile Hunter's Steve Irwin dies at 44}}
*Steve Irwins Death
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*Animal Planet
{{commons}}
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{{Persondata
*A Forum for Crocodile Hunter Fans and wildlife lovers
|NAME=Irwin, Stephen Robert
<!-- deadlink 2006-07-27 *CRIKEY! -->
|ALTERNATIVE NAMES=
|SHORT DESCRIPTION=Australian environmentalist and television personality
|DATE OF BIRTH=]
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Revision as of 22:17, 4 September 2006

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File:Steve-Irwin.jpg
Steve Irwin.

Stephen Robert "Steve" Irwin (22 February 1962 - 4 September 2006, died off the Low Isles at Port Douglas filming an underwater documentary, Queensland 4 September 2006) was the owner and manager of the Australia Zoo at Beerwah, Queensland, Australia. He was best known as The Crocodile Hunter, which was the name of the unconventional nature documentary series on television he hosts, assisted by his American-born wife, Terri Irwin. His larger-than-life persona and seemingly outrageous antics (including the close handling of both common and rare species of wildlife and, perhaps most famously, the capture of live crocodiles and other reptiles on-screen) are key features in the presentation, which provides a forum for educational information about wildlife conservation and conflicts with humans in various parts of the world. The program has made the Irwins television personalities on several continents.

Steve Irwin reportedly died in an accident involving a stingray in the Batt Reef, near Cairns in Australia .

Biography

Born in the Melbourne area, Steve Irwin moved with his parents as a child to Queensland. His parents, Bob and Lyn, ran the small Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park, where Steve grew up around crocodiles and other reptiles. He became a crocodile trapper, removing crocodiles from near populated areas, performing the service for free with the quid pro quo that he kept them for the park. As a child, he had a negative encounter with a macaw, and still retains some fear of parrots.

In 1991, he took over the running of the park, now renamed the "Australia Zoo", and in 1992 met (at the park) and married Terri. The footage, shot by John Stainton, of their crocodile-trapping honeymoon became the first episode of The Crocodile Hunter, which became wildly successful in America.

In 2001, Steve appeared in a cameo role in the Eddie Murphy film Dr. Dolittle 2. In 2002, his first feature film, The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course, was released. In general, reviews of this film were negative. However, in 2003, Irwin was reportedly in line to host a chat show on Australian network television. INCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILS The Irwins have two children: a daughter, Bindi Sue Irwin (born 24 July 1998), and a son, Robert (Bob) Clarence Irwin (born 1 December 2003). Their dog, Sui, from which their daughter's middle name was derived, died in June 2004. INCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILSINCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILSINCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILSINCOG NITO IS A FATCUNT that lives at KALGOS HOUSE #AUSQUAKE FOR MOREDETAILS Under Steve's expansive leadership, the operations have grown to include the zoo, the television series, The Steve Irwin Conservation Foundation, and International Crocodile Rescue. Improvements to his Australia Zoo include the Animal Planet Crocoseum, the rainforest aviary, and Tiger Temple.

Major controversy arose during a public show on 2 January 2004, when Irwin carried his infant son, Bob, in one arm while feeding a chicken carcass to a crocodile with the other hand. The infant was close to the crocodile, and comparisons were made in the press with Michael Jackson's dangling of his son outside a German apartment window. In addition, child welfare groups, animal rights groups, and many of Irwin's television viewers criticised his actions as being irresponsible and tantamount to child abuse. Irwin claimed that any danger to his son was only a perceived danger and that he was in complete control of the situation, and has consistently refused to apologize for his actions despite considerable public outcry both in Australia and abroad. His defenders pointed to his several decades of hands-on experience and direct interaction with crocodiles. Terri Irwin claimed that their child was in no more real danger than a child being taught to swim would be. No charges were filed (although the police did visit Irwin at his home and advised him not to repeat the incident).

Irwin went on to star in other Animal Planet documentaries, including The Croc Files, The Crocodile Hunter Diaries, and New Breed Vets.

In June 2004, Irwin again was the subject of controversy when allegations were made that he came too close to and disturbed some wildlife (namely whales, seals and penguins) while filming a documentary in Antarctica. Interacting with Antarctic wildlife in a disapproved manner may be a breach of Australian federal and international laws. Subsequently, the matter was closed without charges being filed.

Animal Planet then released a Crocodile Hunter special called "Crocodiles & Controversy", which attempted to explain both the "Baby Bob Incident" and the Antarctica incident. This special argues that Irwin's son was never in danger of being eaten by the crocodile and that Irwin could not have endangered animals in Antarctica.

Eventually Animal Planet ended The Crocodile Hunter with a series finale entitled "Steve's Last Adventure". The last Crocodile Hunter documentary went for three emotional hours with footage of Steve's across-the-world adventure, visiting locations like the Himalayas, the Yangtze River, Borneo, and the Kruger National Park.

Steve feeding a crocodile at Australia Zoo.

In January 2006 as part of Australia Week celebrations in the USA, Steve appeared at the Pauley Pavilion, UCLA Los Angeles, California. During an interview on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Steve announced that Discovery Kids will be developing a show for his daughter, Bindi Sue. The show, Jungle Girl, was tipped to be similar to The Wiggles movies, with songs that surround a story. A feature-length episode of Australian kids TV show The Wiggles entitled "Wiggly Safari" appears dedicated to Steve, and he features in it heavily with his wife and daughter. The show includes the song "Crocodile Hunter, Big Steve Irwin".

On Saturday June 24, 2006, one of the oldest turtles living in Steve Irwin's Australian Zoo, died of heart failure. The turtle, named Harriet, was 176 years old and was considered part of Irwin's family. Harriet was thought to have belonged to Charles Darwin.

Steve Irwin was active in politics and was a supporter of the conservative Liberal Party of Australia. In particular, he strongly supported the incumbent Prime Minister John Howard.

On the 4th of September 2006, Steve Irwin was killed by a Stingray barb that punctured his chest, whilst filming a documentary on Batt reef, Queensland.

The Crocodile Hunter Documentaries

The following is a list of Crocodile Hunter documentaries and episodes, ordered by number

  • The Crocodile Hunter
  • The Crocodile Hunter Part Two
  • The Crocodile Hunter Part Three
  • The Crocodile Hunter Goes West Part One
  • The Crocodile Hunter Goes West Part Two
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Traveling The Dingo Fence Part One
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Traveling The Dingo Fence Part Two
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Suburban Killers
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Return To The Wild
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Africa's Deadliest Snakes
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Dangerous Africans
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Dangerous Americans
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Spitting Cobras Of The World
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Surfing Snakes
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Ghosts Of War
  • The Crocodile Hunter - A Handful Of Elephants
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Wild River Of Africa
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Faces In The Forest
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Island Of Time
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Steve & The Dragon
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Australia's Wild Frontier
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Crocodiles Of The Revolution
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Graham's Revenge
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Bunya Rescue
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Zoo Evolution
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Story
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Most Dangerous Adventures
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Greatest Crocodile Captures
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Captured On Camera
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Wildest Home Videos
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Big Croc Diaries
  • The Crocodile Hunter - River Of The Damed
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Crocs In The City
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Penguins In The City
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Island Of Snakes
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Whale Shales Of The Wild West
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Phantoms Of The Rainforest
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Alligators In Love
  • The Crocodile Hunter - They Shoot Crocodiles Don't They
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Leopards Of The Himalayas
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Africa's Big Five
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Singapore Safari
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Adventure With David Attenborough
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Ice Breaker
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Crocodiles & Controversy
  • The Crocodile Hunter - Steve's Last Adventure - Series Final

The Crocodile Hunter Diaries Episodes

  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Steve's Birthday
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Dancing With Devils
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - New Zoo
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - New Arrivals
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Wild Boys, Wild Crocs
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Girls Catch Crocs Too
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Mateship
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - John Farnham's Holiday
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Operation Sui
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 1 - Mary's Farewell
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Wiggly Safari (featuring The Wiggles)
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Kelly's Big Day
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Celebrities & Practical Jokes
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Wild About Harry
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Celebrities & Practical Jokes 2
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Backstage Bedlam
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Behind 'Croc Live'
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Celebrities & Practical Jokes 3
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Crocoseum
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Elephants Down Under
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Tigers Live
  • The Crocodile Hunter Diaries - Season 2 - Last Entry - Series Final

Trivia

References

  1. The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, 13 January 2006.
  2. "Singapore Sling!". International Crocodile Rescue. Retrieved 16 March. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help); Unknown parameter |accessyear= ignored (|access-date= suggested) (help)


External links

Categories: