Irwin family returning to Animal Planet 20 years after ‘Crocodile Hunter’

The Irwin family is returning to TV and Animal Planet 21 years after “The Crocodile Hunter” premiered in 1996.

In a Wednesday news release, Discovery Communications said Terri, Bindi and Robert Irwin will be working on TV projects on Animal Planet, which is owned by Discovery Communications.

The Irwins are carrying on the legacy of their late patriarch, Steve Irwin, who spent his life learning about and educating others about wildlife, particularly reptiles. He died in 2006 when a stingray’s barb pierced his heart.

"Steve Irwin was a champion for all wildlife and he and Terri's excitement and enthusiasm brought viewers from around the world in touch with nature," Animal Planet general manager Patrice Andrews said in a statement. "Their passion for animals, love for their family, and leadership in conservation awareness left a strong legacy that continues today."

Terri Irwin, Steve Irwin’s widow and mother of Bindi, 19, and Robert, 13, said in a statement that she and her children are excited to be returning to the network.

“We look forward to the year ahead as we embark on new projects and adventures with Animal Planet,” she said.

Crikey! So excited to announce that we are officially returning to @AnimalPlanet next year! We love the @DiscoveryComm family

💙

— Bindi Irwin (@BindiIrwin)

“The Crocodile Hunter” aired from 1996-2007. Husband and wife Steve and Terri Irwin co-hosted and their two children frequently made appearances. Other shows the Irwins hosted included “Croc Files” and “New Breed Vets.”

In addition to TV projects, the Irwins will be global ambassadors for Discovery Communications.

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