Robert Irwin Stars as Robert Furwin the Koala in Zootopia 2: A Dream Come True
Robert Irwin has officially stepped into the film industry with his debut in Disney’s animated sequel, Zootopia 2. The 21-year-old environmentalist and son of the late Steve Irwin voices a character named Robert Furwin, a koala that holds special significance for him.
Irwin expressed his excitement at the film’s premiere on November 13 in Los Angeles, saying, “To play a koala, an animal so close to my heart, means everything.” Irwin, who recently crowned champion of Dancing with the Stars, attended the event alongside his dance partner, Witney Carson.
“This is honestly so surreal,” he added. “The fact that I get to be part of a film that is all about celebrating animals—it’s about celebrating the reptiles, the snakes, just as much as the cute and cuddly bunnies and koalas.” His contributions to wildlife conservation in Australia made this opportunity particularly meaningful.
Irwin emphasized his family’s ongoing efforts to rescue and rehabilitate koalas, which remain an endangered species. “It was very cool to represent that,” he noted. “I think [the film is] helping people reconnect with animals and nature.”
In addition to Irwin, the film features a star-studded cast including Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, and Idris Elba. While Irwin has lent his voice to television projects, including a 2020 episode of the children’s series Bluey, this marks his first appearance in a major motion picture.
As Irwin stated, “When I was approached to play a character in Zootopia 2, I was immediately on board, but when they said you’re going to play a koala named Robert Furwin, I’m like, ‘Mate, it doesn’t get better than that.'” Irwin’s enthusiasm highlights both his personal connection to the character and his commitment to conservation efforts.
Zootopia 2 is now available in theaters.
