Steve Irwin’s son Robert has broken down during an episode of Dancing With the Stars, as he tearfully remembers his father. Australian environmentalist, zookeeper, and television personality Irwin senior achieved global fame with his wildlife documentary The Crocodile Hunter, which ran from 1996 to 2004, and for his eccentric and affable persona.

In 2006, while filming a documentary titled Ocean’s Deadliest in the Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland, Irwin was killed from an injury sustained by a stingray. He was survived by his wife, Terri Raines, as well as a daughter, Bindi, along with his son, all of whom are zookeepers and conservationists.

Per EW, during ‘Dedication Night’ on season 34 of ABC’s Dancing With the Stars, Irwin broke down following an emotional dance with his mother, as he tearfully remembered his late father. The 21-year-old paid tribute to his dad and discussed how proud he is of his mother and the job she’s done. Check out his comments below:

“I was 2 when I lost dad, and as I got older, I started to realize just how hard it would have been for her to be there for us — and all the while, continue Dad’s legacy that her and dad built together. I struggle a lot with losing dad, a lot, and she always made sure my dad was present in our lives. I wanted to know how proud my dad would be of her.”

Irwin is widely remembered by the public for his range of iconic quotes, but it’s clear that his loss still impacts his family, and it must be particularly tough for his son. Losing his father at 2-years-old would have been strange, as he was too young to really remember his Dad, but has had to endure growing up without him.

The emotional dance proved to provide a touching moment for Irwin and his mother, as they were able to unite in grief and remembrance, while also acknowledging the importance of moving on, and leaning on one another. It was a sweet and emotionally charged moment for all involved, and one of the highlights of the season.

The legacy of Irwin senior’s work, and his death, has had a profound impact on the world of conservation, particularly in Australia, and it’s great to see that his son is so passionate about continuing to honor his father. The Irwins continue to work closely with wildlife, and still own and run Australia zoo, continuing the work that Irwin set in place.

The Irwin family rescued 90,000 animals injured in the Australian fires, and are clearly a very close-knit family, with a deep love for wildlife. Irwin’s Dancing With The Stars performance with his mother was a wonderful way of remembering his father, as well as bringing Irwin’s work, life, and legacy to a new generation of potential fans.