It’s been 16 years since the world lost Steve Irwin, the beloved zookeeper who transformed how people viewed dangerous animals. He died doing what he loved at just 44 years old.

In a recent interview on Anh’s Brush With Fame, Steve’s wife, Terri Irwin, revealed a surprising confession: “He never thought he’d have a long life. He always had this sense his life would be cut short.” Tragically, Steve’s prediction came true when a stingray fatally injured him while filming Ocean’s Deadliest in Queensland, Australia.

Terri recalled the devastating moment she had to inform their children, Bindi and Robert, about their father’s passing. Despite her grief, she was moved by the overwhelming global support that followed.

Terri shared that Steve never sought fame, focusing instead on wildlife conservation. Every dollar they earned went back into their mission, a legacy she continues today. Steve’s death left millions mourning, but his passion for animal education and preservation lives on.