Steve Irwin was a rare and beloved figure, admired worldwide for his passion for animals and his energetic efforts to educate and entertain. His sudden death at 44 in 2006 shocked many, especially since it came not from crocodiles or venomous snakes, but from an unexpected stingray strike.
Tributes poured in globally, and some comfort came from knowing Irwin died doing what he loved. His commitment to filming was well known—according to IMDb biographer Tommy Donovan, Irwin insisted cameras should never stop rolling, even in danger.
On September 4, 2006, while filming a segment for his daughter Bindi’s show near the Great Barrier Reef, Irwin approached a usually harmless stingray. When he passed over it, the ray struck repeatedly. Cameraman Justin Lyons helped him back to the boat, but the sting had fatally damaged Irwin’s heart. His crew tried desperately to save him, but he died shortly after, reportedly whispering, “I’m dying.”
The tragic event was captured on camera. Director and friend John Stainton later said the footage should never be seen. In 2007, authorities destroyed all but one copy, which was given to Irwin’s widow, Terri. She has never watched it and says another copy remains secured in a police vault.