Robert Irwin Calls Sister Bindi Irwin ‘Tough’ After She Misses Steve Irwin Gala Due to Appendectomy

Robert Irwin is praising his sister Bindi Irwin’s resilience after she was forced to miss the annual Steve Irwin Gala in Las Vegas due to an emergency appendix surgery. “She was planning on being here, but her appendix had other plans. So, an appendectomy is not something that you can delay. She’s had a grumbling appendix for a while,” the 21-year-old told Access Hollywood at the gala on May 10. Robert went on to explain that Bindi was already in Vegas and ready to walk the red carpet but ultimately had to cancel for the procedure. “She’s very sad she couldn’t be here but she’s going to be recovering, and she’ll be well in no time. She is a tough, tough person. Oh my goodness,” he said, adding, “She went through everything with endometriosis. So, this isn’t her first rodeo unfortunately. But she is just such an incredible advocate for women’s health. And I’m very proud of her – very, very proud.” The son of Steve Irwin also spoke about the importance of the Gala as he reflected on his late father’s legacy. “It’s incredible. The thing about dad is that he was a universal voice. He brought an entire generation together. He showed us all what it was to truly care for our fellow living beings, people and animals, and to live life to 100%.” He continued, “The fact that still we got a room of hundreds of people brought together by his voice and his message, to this day, it just goes straight to our heart. It’s amazing.” Plus, the 21-year-old dished on how he’s began preparing for the upcoming “Dancing with the Stars” season he will be starring in.