TV star and conservationist Robert Irwin has shared insights into his friendship with Prince William during an appearance on ITV's This Morning on Wednesday, June 24.
Robert, the son of late Australian 'Crocodile Hunter' Steve Irwin, serves as an ambassador for the royal's Earthshot Prize, a global initiative that awards solutions to environmental challenges.
Friendship and Collaboration
Host Ben Shephard remarked that Robert had "become best mates with our future king," prompting Robert to explain their connection. "His Royal Highness Prince William has become someone that I work with quite a lot through the Earthshot Prize," Robert said. "It's about looking at conservation and all of these big challenges through the lens of urgent optimism."
Robert described William as "a passionate individual" and "one of the greatest environmentalists that we have on the planet." He added, "When I am around other people who share that passion for conservation, it gets me so excited."
Surprise FaceTime Call
Robert recounted a memorable moment when William FaceTimed him during rehearsals for Dancing with the Stars in America. "He FaceTimed me in rehearsals with my dance partner just to wish me well," Robert said. "I had no idea it was happening. They sit me down and go, 'Apparently, there's a really important call coming through.' And there he is on the laptop. There's Prince William. And I'm just like, 'Oh, hey, mate. Thank you so much. This is awesome.'"
Robert emphasized that the prince is "just a down-to-Earth human being" who understands the importance of conservation reaching different audiences.
Speed Dial Friendship
When Ben asked if Robert had William's number in his phone, Robert quipped, "On speed dial." He added, "Joining forces with Prince William with the Earthshot Prize was not on my bingo card, but honestly, it is such a privilege."
Robert's father Steve was a renowned conservationist and environmentalist who ran Australia Zoo, which the family continues to operate. Steve died in 2006 at age 44 after a stingray barb pierced his chest while filming a documentary on the Great Barrier Reef.
This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV.
