The star is speaking out on the major shift in the public’s perception of the young conservationist.

At just 21 years old, Robert Irwin, son of the late Steve Irwin, the world-famous “Crocodile Hunter,” has made headlines for everything from his wildlife conservation work to his growing celebrity presence. But this past April, Irwin unexpectedly became the internet’s heartthrob when he appeared in a cheeky campaign for Bonds Australia underwear, posing in nothing but briefs, surrounded by venomous snakes, lizards, and spiders.

The campaign, titled Made for Down Under, marked a major shift in the public’s perception of the young conservationist. And while the ad may have left jaws on the floor, Irwin says the reaction was far more intense than he ever imagined.

Photo: Bonds

“I did not expect the reaction it got!” Irwin told PEOPLE in an exclusive interview with People. “I’m not going to lie: It was a little strange. But people were also very kind. I forget that so many people have been on my journey since I was tiny — I was born on Crocodile Hunter.”

Indeed, Irwin has grown up in the public eye, from his early appearances as “little Bobby” on his father’s iconic wildlife shows to his own ongoing work at Australia Zoo. But he’s now stepping into a new chapter of his life, one that blends media, activism, and yes, a bit of body confidence.

Photo: Bonds

The Underwear Ad That Shocked the Internet

Shot with all the style of a fashion editorial (and a dash of Aussie irreverence), the Bonds campaign featured Irwin posing shirtless in tight briefs, confidently wrangling snakes and insects. It was a stark contrast to his usual khakis-and-boot attire.

“I mean, I’ve spent my life wrangling crocs and snakes and rescuing animals,” he said. “And so to feature a little slice of that excitement in this new campaign — mate, it has been so much fun. I’m surrounded by spiders and snakes except [this time] I’m in my undies. That’s the only difference.”

Despite the playful premise, Irwin emphasizes that the campaign wasn’t just about showing off a new six-pack. His true motivation? Using his growing platform to spread awareness about wildlife conservation.

Photo: Bonds

“At the end of the day, that campaign wasn’t about me,” he said. “It was about wildlife.”

And it worked. The ad went viral, trending across social media platforms — particularly in LGBTQ+ circles, where fans praised both Irwin’s physique and his message. For many, it was refreshing to see a young man so openly embracing body positivity, self-confidence, and environmental activism in one package.

From Wildlife Warrior to Ballroom Star

Irwin’s bold turn in the underwear ad was only the beginning. He’s now preparing to debut on Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars, which premieres September 16 on ABC and streams the next day on Disney+ and Hulu. And while Irwin may be fearless with crocodiles, he admits dancing has him completely out of his comfort zone.

“Look, if you think you’re bad at dancing, multiply that by 100!” he joked. “I’ve never tried it. I don’t wear sequins. I’m not in this world at all. So it’s super new, and it’s terrifying — but it’s also awesome.”

Teaming up with pro partner Witney Carson, Irwin says he’s channeling the same adrenaline he’s used to in the wild into the ballroom.

“I feel like I live for adrenaline. I’m not really living if I’m not on the edge just a little bit,” he said.

Body Image, Mental Health, and Representation

Beyond dancing and animal wrangling, Irwin says he’s increasingly aware of how his platform, and his image, impact young people.

“This whole body image conversation has become an important thing in my repertoire to discuss,” he said. “Once you’re in the fitness world, people fall into a trap of thinking you have to look a certain way. But my message to young people is: work on being the best version of yourself.”

He added that staying mentally and physically fit was key when training for the Bonds campaign, and now, for Dancing with the Stars.

“There were too many sit-ups for that campaign!” Irwin joked. “But I really wanted to be in the best shape mentally and physically, because I was representing Australia, and I wanted to feel super confident.”

More Than Just a Pretty Face

What sets Robert Irwin apart from other rising public figures is that his fame isn’t built on social media clout alone, it’s built on legacy, activism, and passion. He continues to work full-time at Australia Zoo, walking the wildlife reserve daily, educating the public, and championing causes close to his heart.

“I feel like my whole mission of conservation is being listened to on an even larger scale now,” he said. “It’s more important than ever to come together with a sense of kindness toward each other and toward the planet.”

Irwin’s unique blend of charisma, confidence, and conservationist values makes him a refreshing presence in a digital culture that can often feel superficial. And whether he’s wrangling snakes in his underwear or doing the cha-cha in sequins, his message remains the same: authenticity matters.