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THE SOUND STAGE — When Steve “The Crocodile Hunter” Irwin died suddenly in 2006, it was obvious that there would never be anyone else like him — until now.
Irwin’s enthusiasm for all wildlife great and small could’ve come off as over-the-top and cheesy, but instead his joy was infectious and compelling. He cooed over deadly animals like crocodiles and snakes, calling them “beauuutiful” and “amaaazing” in his singular drawling way.
Now, I don’t know about you, but I had plum forgot that Irwin had a son named Robert as well as his famous daughter Bindi. However, I was glad to be reminded of that fact when 13-year-old Robert Irwin appeared on "The Tonight Show" with Jimmy Fallon this week.
Just like his father, Robert brought exotic animals to the show to give Fallon a taste of the wild side the world has to offer. With intonation and enthusiasm so similar to his father, Robert coos over an African dwarf crocodile named Beetlejuice, calling him “amaaazing” in an achingly familiar manner. And so it continues through the segment.
The entire video is charming and sweet as Fallon compares Robert to his father and as Fallon gamely interacts with scaly and furry creatures alike. It’s obvious that Robert is a chip off the old block, and his father’s legacy has found a good home within his son.
In honor of Steve Irwin, an annual gala and fundraiser for the Australia Zoo’s Wildlife Warriors is being held on May 13 in Los Angeles. To learn more about the event and the foundation, visit the Wildlife Warriors' website.