Reports suggest a growing strain behind the scenes at Australia Zoo, as Chandler Powell reaches a breaking point after months of steadfastly managing the wildlife park alone.
The Weight of Responsibility
According to sources speaking to New Idea, Chandler Powell, 29, ended last year feeling "exhausted" and increasingly overlooked. The pressure mounted as his brother-in-law, 22-year-old Robert Irwin, embarked on a series of high-profile television opportunities that took him from Hollywood to South Africa.
This left Chandler to shoulder the immense responsibility of the day-to-day running of the Queensland zoo, the legacy of his late father-in-law, Steve Irwin. "Chandler has been working nonstop to keep the zoo going," an insider claimed. "He's exhausted and feels like he puts in the blood, sweat and tears back home to keep [Steve's] legacy alive."
Cracks in a Once-Thick Friendship
While Chandler and Robert have historically been incredibly close, insiders indicate that the relentless schedule is causing friction. Robert's rising international fame, including his successful stint on Dancing With The Stars in the US and his upcoming role co-hosting I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! in South Africa, has created a physical and emotional distance.
The situation reportedly intensified last year when Chandler, his wife Bindi, and her mother Terri were forced to step away from the zoo for three months to support Robert during his DWTS journey. "Sometimes he feels like Robert has gone a little too 'Hollywood', although Robert certainly doesn't see it that way," the source added.
Bindi's Balancing Act and Hopes for Resolution
Caught in the middle of her husband and brother, Bindi Irwin is said to be managing the situation as best she can. In a bid to help Chandler unwind, she has recently booked a getaway for the couple to Tasmania.
Those close to the family remain hopeful, given the strong bond Chandler and Robert have shared for years. The Wildlife Warrior is reportedly optimistic the tension will "solve itself organically." Meanwhile, Robert is currently in South Africa, preparing for the premiere of I'm A Celebrity on January 18, which he will host alongside Julia Morris.
