Robert Irwin, the son of the late conservationist Steve The Crocodile Hunter Irwin, and his girlfriend Rorie Buckey, painted a picture of young love as they made their red carpet debut at the Sydney premiere of Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One this Monday.
Not hesitant to share their affection, 19-year-old Robert warmly embraced Rorie, also 19, around her waist while posing for the event's photographers.
The wildlife photographer cut a dashing figure in an all-black suit, offering a perfect complement to Rorie's chic one-shoulder dress.
© Don ArnoldAdding an extra sprinkle of stardom to the young couple's debut, Rorie is the niece of more Australian celeb royalty, the late award-winning actor Heath Ledger, being the daughter of Ledger's sister, Kate Buckey.
Romantically involved since the end of last year, Robert and Rorie share a unique bond, carrying the legacy of their celebrity relatives.
Following Steve's untimely death in 2006 from a fatal stingray attack, his wife, Terri, and their two children, Robert and Bindi, have committed themselves to continue the work that was so dear to him.
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© Lisa Maree WilliamsThe Irwin family manages Australia Zoo and are the beloved stars of their reality series, "Crikey! It's the Irwins." The recent seasons have expanded to include Bindi's husband, Chandler Powell, and their adorable 2-year-old daughter, Grace.
A particularly poignant moment was shared last December during Robert's birthday celebrations at the family zoo, where a video montage unveiled a heartfelt message from Steve.
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© Don ArnoldSpeaking about the transformative moment of Robert's birth, Steve expressed that despite his notable conservation efforts, his true calling was to be a father.
“This is why I was put here because I could be dead tomorrow,” Steve declared in the video, emphasising the urgency for his children to swiftly step into his shoes, envisioning Robert "catching the crocs with Bindi."
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The emotional resonance of Steve's words visibly touched Robert, who found comfort in his mother's gentle consoling. Living up to his father's aspirations, Robert is actively involved in the family's zoo operations, including wrestling crocodiles and handling snakes, just as his father once did.
