Terri Irwin, the widow of iconic wildlife warrior Steve Irwin, has remained steadfastly single since her husband’s tragic death in 2006, declaring she has no desire for romance and is content preserving his legacy alongside their children and conservation efforts.

In a candid interview with Australia’s The Courier-Mail published this week, Terri, 60, reflected on nearly two decades without the “Crocodile Hunter,” who was fatally stung by a stingray while filming a documentary off the Great Barrier Reef on September 4, 2006, at age 44. The American-born conservationist, who met Steve in 1991 at Australia Zoo and married him the following year, said she’s never gone on a date since and has zero inclination to start now. “I totally loved my life with Steve—we had endless happiness together,” she told the outlet. “I just can’t imagine anyone else comparing to him.”

Terri’s devotion isn’t born from grief alone but from a profound sense of fulfillment in the life they built. The couple, who shared a whirlwind romance that began when Terri, then a rehabilitator for predatory animals in Oregon, visited the zoo on a whim, quickly became partners in both love and labor. They expanded Australia Zoo from a small family operation into a global conservation hub, starring in the hit TV series The Crocodile Hunter, which aired from 1996 to 2006 and captivated millions with Steve’s khaki-clad enthusiasm for wildlife. Their union produced two children: daughter Bindi in 1998 and son Robert in 2003, both now carrying the torch.

Since Steve’s death, which shocked the world and drew tributes from figures like then-Australian Prime Minister John Howard, Terri has channeled her energy into honoring his memory. “I’m focused on keeping his legacy alive, raising our kids, and continuing the conservation work,” she explained. Australia Zoo, located in Beerwah, Queensland, has thrived under her stewardship, growing to over 100 acres with initiatives like the Wildlife Warriors foundation, which funds anti-poaching efforts, habitat restoration, and animal rescues worldwide. Annual revenue from the zoo reportedly tops $20 million, much of it reinvested into these causes.

The decision to stay single stems from contentment, not obligation. Terri, who still wears her wedding ring and speaks of Steve in the present tense during zoo tours, said she’s “happy and satisfied” without a new relationship. “I don’t need anything else—I’ve had the best,” she added. This stance echoes comments she’s made over the years, including in a 2018 interview with Access Hollywood where she shut down romance rumors, stating, “Steve was it for me.” Speculation has occasionally swirled—linking her platonically to figures like actor Russell Crowe, a family friend—but Terri has consistently quashed it, emphasizing her role as a mother and steward.

Experts in grief and relationships note that such loyalty isn’t uncommon among widows of high-profile figures. Dr. Katherine Shear, a psychiatrist at Columbia University specializing in prolonged grief, told Fox News in a similar context that some individuals find “continuing bonds” with the deceased provide emotional stability. “For Terri, Steve’s presence lives on through her work and family—it’s a form of enduring love that doesn’t require replacement,” Shear explained. Statistics from the American Psychological Association show that about 10-20 percent of widows over 50 choose not to remarry or date, often citing satisfaction with independence.

Terri’s children have grown into advocates themselves, further solidifying the family’s unbreakable unit. Bindi, 26, married American wakeboarder Chandler Powell in 2020 during a small COVID-era ceremony at the zoo and welcomed daughter Grace in 2021. She’s a vocal conservationist, hosting shows like Crikey! It’s the Irwins on Animal Planet. Robert, 20, mirrors his father’s energy, wrangling crocs and starring in documentaries. Both have publicly praised their mother’s resilience. “Mum’s strength is inspiring—she’s kept Dad’s spirit alive every day,” Bindi said in a 2023 Instagram post marking the anniversary of Steve’s passing.

The zoo itself serves as a living memorial. Visitors flock to see the Crocodile Hunter exhibit, featuring Steve’s boat and footage reels, while Terri leads daily shows demonstrating wildlife handling—just as they did together. Conservation achievements abound: Wildlife Warriors has saved over 100,000 animals and protected millions of acres, including anti-poaching patrols in Africa and koala habitats in Australia ravaged by bushfires. In 2022, the foundation launched a $1 million campaign for rhinoceros protection, echoing Steve’s passion for endangered species.

Terri’s life post-Steve hasn’t been without challenges. She battled legal disputes over the zoo’s direction early on and faced public scrutiny during the 2020 Australian wildfires, which threatened the facility. Yet, she’s emerged stronger, authoring books like Steve & Me in 2007 and continuing speaking engagements. Financially secure from zoo operations and media deals—estimated net worth around $10 million—she’s poured resources into causes Steve championed, like crocodile research and marine conservation.

Romantic interests? None on the horizon. In the interview, Terri laughed off the idea, saying, “At my age, with everything we’ve built, why complicate it?” She’s active on social media, sharing zoo updates and family moments, amassing over 1.5 million Instagram followers who admire her poise. Fans often comment on her eternal youthfulness—attributed to an active lifestyle amid kangaroos and komodo dragons—and her unwavering fidelity.

This loyalty resonates in a culture obsessed with moving on. Relationship coach Susan Winter told the New York Post that Terri exemplifies “conscious uncoupling from societal expectations,” choosing legacy over loneliness. Peers in the conservation world, like Jane Goodall, have commended her. “Terri’s dedication is a testament to true partnership,” Goodall said in a 2019 tribute.

As the 18th anniversary of Steve’s death passed in September 2024, Terri marked it quietly with family at the zoo, releasing a statement: “Every day is a reminder of the joy he brought.” Her message to others in grief? “Find purpose in the love that remains—it’s enough.” For Terri Irwin, that purpose is crystal clear: a life of crocodiles, kids, and cherished memories—no detours needed.

The Irwin saga continues to inspire. Upcoming projects include a new Animal Planet special on Robert’s adventures and Bindi’s wildlife hospital expansions. Terri, ever the matriarch, oversees it all, proving that some loves are timeless. In her words: “Steve and I were soulmates— that’s forever.”

Critics might call it isolation, but supporters see empowerment. Data from Widows International shows many in similar positions report higher life satisfaction when focused on family and causes rather than new partnerships. Terri’s story, raw and real, challenges Hollywood norms of rebound romances, offering a blueprint for grace under loss.

At 60, with graying hair and a sun-kissed smile, Terri embodies resilience. She’s not waiting for Prince Charming; she’s ruling her kingdom of beasts and bonds. As she told The Courier-Mail, “I’m married to the mission now—and it’s fulfilling.” For fans worldwide, it’s a poignant reminder: happiness doesn’t always require a plus-one.