Robert Irwin, the son of the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, has recently made waves by starring in a daring new underwear campaign for Australian brand Bonds. In the advertisement, the 21-year-old conservationist poses with venomous snakes and spiders, showcasing a whole new side of himself. Irwin spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about his preparations for the shoot, revealing that he had to amp up his fitness regime like never before.
The racy ads, part of the “Made for Down Under” campaign, feature Irwin in various provocative poses, leaving little to the imagination. Despite the daring nature of the shoot, Irwin expressed excitement and enthusiasm for the opportunity, citing Bonds as an iconic brand in Australia. He shared that he is at a point in his life where he is seeking new and exhilarating experiences, and the chance to model underwear definitely fit the bill.
Posing with dangerous creatures like snakes and spiders was no sweat for Irwin, who grew up surrounded by wildlife and adventure. He likened the experience to his usual animal wrangling exploits, with the only difference being that this time he was in his underwear. Irwin highlighted that the campaign allowed him to infuse his love for wildlife into a new platform and reach a wider audience with his conservation message.
When asked which was scarier — wrestling a crocodile or stripping down for a photoshoot — Irwin jokingly admitted that the latter was more nerve-wracking. He emphasised the importance of maintaining physical fitness for his demanding lifestyle, which includes saving crocodiles and traversing the Australian bush regularly. Irwin shared that he received workout tips from his brother-in-law, a professional athlete, and drew inspiration from his mother’s bodybuilding background.
Throughout the shoot, Irwin was fully supported by his family, including his sister Bindi. He expressed gratitude for their unwavering encouragement and stated that their bond is the foundation for everything he does. Additionally, Irwin mentioned that the provocative ads are a means to carry on his father’s legacy of animal conservation, asserting that any attention brought to the cause is valuable.
As the news of Irwin’s unexpected venture into underwear modelling circulates, fans and followers eagerly anticipate his future endeavours. The bold move not only showcases Irwin’s versatility but also amplifies his message of wildlife conservation to a broader audience. Irwin’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new opportunities reflects his dedication to honouring his father’s legacy in the most unexpected ways.