How Much Was Steve Irwin Worth When He Died?
With indefatigable optimism and wide-eyed joy, Steve Irwin brought the ideals of environmentalism and conservation to the televisions of audiences across the globe for the better part of a decade, cementing himself as perhaps the least hateable celebrity in human history. Alongside his wife and business partner, Terri, the Crocodile Hunter co-hosted multiple documentary series, operated the Australia Zoo, and had two children, Bindi and Robert. They also established a conservationist organization, the Steve Irwin Conservation Foundation (now known as the Wildlife Warriors), responsible for providing animal rescues in emergency situations, as well as offering community education on environmental issues across the globe. Plus, they made a movie, which was charming, if a little derivative, but we digress.
In September 2006, Irwin was filming on location off the coast of Queensland. While capturing underwater footage of a six-foot stingray, the animal in question became agitated and attacked the Crocodile Hunter, piercing his chest. What was thought to be a treatable strike to the television personality's lung was in fact a fatal blow to the heart, and Irwin passed away en route to the hospital. The conservationist and TV star left behind an incredible legacy, but for those who wonder about the bottom line, how much was the Crocodile Hunter worth during his heyday?
Crikey, Steve Irwin was worth quite a bit
So what was Steve Irwin worth when he died?
Monetarily, the waters are murky. Estimates of Steve Irwin's net worth at the time of his death vary wildly. Celebrity Net Worth puts it at $10 million, while The Richest claims it was closer to $40 million. This financial buildup would've largely come thanks to Irwin's many television and movie roles, as well as his memorable appearances in TV commercials for brands like FedEx, Toyota, and even the Australian government.
In terms of the impact that he made, Steve Irwin's value is likely incalculable. To this day, groups that he helped fund continue striving to provide humane animal care and rescue, with the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital having admitted more than 90,000 patients over the years. They even take donations, if you're into that sort of thing.