Steve Irwin
1962 – 2006 · Australia
Known for: The Crocodile Hunter who made the world love wildlife
“I have no fear of losing my life, if I have to save a koala or a crocodile or a kangaroo.”
Biography
With boundless energy and a khaki uniform, Steve Irwin turned wildlife conservation into must-watch television. The Crocodile Hunter reached 500 million people in over 130 countries, and his infectious "Crikey!" enthusiasm made a generation fall in love with the animals most feared. He wrestled the danger himself so viewers would learn to protect, not fear.
He ploughed his fame straight back into conservation, buying huge tracts of land, running Australia Zoo, and campaigning fiercely for endangered species. He died doing what he loved, filming underwater, at just 44. His family carries on the work, and every ranger inspired by that grinning man in khaki is part of his legacy.