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Why I Won't Salute Steve Irwin |
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He was an Australian, but his popularity was admittedly universal. His Crocodile Hunter series of animal documentaries attracted a regular combined viewership of more than 200-million worldwide, testifying to his global appeal.
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Steve Irwin was killed in September off Australia's northeast coast after he was hit by the serrated barb from a sting-ray's tail during a diving expedition for a television shoot. He was apparently grappling with the sting-ray, which reacted in self-defence. The barb pierced his chest and stilled his heart. A most painful death, doctors said.
Was I saddened? Of course, I was. Any death saddens me. As an animal lover, will I salute Steve Irwin's memory? Sorry, I will not.
His bio-data would suggest that 44-year-old Irwin was a first-rate naturalist and wild-life crusader, even a global ambassador of conservation. In his television interviews too, he made the correct noises. His mission, he proclaimed, was to make wild-life environs palpable at close quarters, not something to be admired like a pretty picture postcard through a long-range television lens.
In his video documentaries however - and let's not forget that that's where he earned his reputation and where his legacy will ultimately endure - he came across as anything but a committed environmentalist. He trespassed into the habitats of all kinds of animals, manhandled and bullied them with a repulsive gusto, and then topped it all by startling the distressed creatures with shrieking endearments: "Crikey, my beauty, aren't you gorgeous?"
What was Irwin really aiming at? A closer personal equation with wild and dangerous creatures? Or higher television ratings?
With his chunky torso and blonde hair, his tight-fitting khaki shirt and shorts, a permanent glint in those beady eyes, and sporting an assortment of gashes from his daily encounters with danger, Steve was a rough-cut backwoods avatar of another famous Australian - cricketer Shane Warne. The comparison was most telling in their aggressive and gregarious demeanour, the barely concealed violence of their public performances, and the equally obvious glee with which they went about their chosen vocations.
 | But while such aggression might be admirable on a cricket field, it was strangely out of place in a zoo or even in a rainforest. Simply because it came to symbolize the arrogant White Man's unholy ambition to dominate - even annihilate, if domination is not possible - Nature and his fellow-creatures with a crafty, wily, and therefore technologically superior skill. Irwin may have tried hard to be an animal "lover" by getting physically close - even intimate - with the animals. But he succeeded merely in hreflecting the narcissistic and colonial attitude of his ancestors. If his Caucasian forefathers colonized and subjugated the dark-skinned natives of the American, African, Asian and Australian continents, Steve Irwin had set his sights on the entire animal kingdom.
Crocodiles - the more lethal and carnivorous, the better - were his self-confessed favorites. In an act that was amazing television spectacle, but dubious parenting practice, he dangled his month-old baby in one hand while feeding chickens to a hungry crocodile at hand-shaking distance in Australia Zoo. Irwin later explained to his horrified critics that he was only training the toddler to overcome its fear of crocodiles!
It is rightly said that a society can be judged by the way it treats its children and its animals. Television documentaries showing beefy control-freaks grappling routinely with animals convey the message - to impressionable growing kids, in particular - that those animals are objects to be toyed and trifled with for our entertainment: a four-legged variation of a WWF bout!
Who will rein in these control-freaks? The American Indians as well as the Australian aborigines were nearly wiped out when they resisted the "pale-faced" intruders and their ruthless ways. Would the good old Indian philosophy of ahimsa or non-violence, with its innate reverence for life, provide the answer? It's a clear pointer to the animistic origins of Hinduism that we still worship snakes and elephant-headed gods, and have designated an animal or bird as a vehicle for each mythological deity, thus ensuring that they too are deified by association. Several of the names we give our newborns - Nagaraj (snake), Ganesh (elephant), Hansraj (swan), Ashwin (horse), Sharang (deer), Sheroo (tiger) - and even family names like Singh and Popat speak of our traditional regard for the animal kingdom.
I agree that this institutionalized sentiment hardly informs the way we Indians treat animals in our daily lives, and that we need to practise ahimsa ourselves before preaching to the world. But little acts often speak loud and clear: I once witnessed a village headman in Karnataka bow tearfully in front of a crazed marauding monkey before shooting it dead. That image has somehow seared itself in my memory.
Contrast this with reports of Steve Irwin's fans mourning his death. Several of them went on a revenge-killing spree leaving a trail of dead sting-rays. For a man who is said to have lived for animals, there could be no greater failure of his life-mission. | |
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Nicolle
Contact Nicolle
Mon Sep 24, 2007
I miss steve irwin....he was so young...
I think that steve irwin was a very good man and he does not deserve this kind of discipline. He loved his family very much... and he loved animals very much. I wanted to learn about him more so I am doing an assigned science project on him. He was so young to die. I miss you Steve Irwin.
meylin aoun
Contact meylin aoun
Fri Jul 20, 2007
psh
ok the croc hunter was an awesome dude so he looks like another wildlife biologist so what that makes him a bad guy? So he held his daughter while feeding his crocodile. That was a really careless mistake, but nothing happened and that doesn't make him a bad person. And his fans killed on, so its a dead man's fault? You have no life for posting such a mean thing to Steve Irwin. You make him look like a poser and a bad father and a zombie that makes pople kill stingrays. I however do love the crocodile hunter he did do a good job and his death was tragic.
Martin
Contact Martin
Tue May 01, 2007
The Animals Loved Steve
Steve Irwin did more for the animals in this world than anyone before him. He made made many millions of dollars through his TV shows and movies and what did he do with the money? He used it to create animal sanctuaries all around the world (including Australia Zoo) and he set up wildlife preservation organisations like wildlife warriors. Steve was never on TV for Fame or money, he did it because he loved animals and wanted everyone to share his love. If you had watched any of his shows you would know this. Once when he was in the jungle a orangatang mother allowed Steve to get close to her baby, the orangatang showed now signs of fear of Steve (who was in tears due to the trust shown.) Steve would never hurt animals!!! and he has done more for this planet than Shekhar Hattangadi could in 1 million life times.
Murali
Contact Murali
Mon Apr 09, 2007
Who's Shekhar Hattangadi
While I am not sure who this profoundly ignorant, overly zealous, self styled defender of Indian values is, I must say that he has just shown off his utter stupidity to the whole world. Being an Indian-Hindu-Brahmin myself, I was pleasantly delighted to see how the western man (largely) loves and treats animals (and even fellow human beings!!) unlike us Indians. His tirade against the white man may have been valid decades ago, the vast majority of white men, be it in the US, Australia, the UK, Canada, Switzerland based on my first hand experience are vastly more cultured than the rest of the world, including us Indians!!
Mr. Hattangadi: Steve was a great human being first, and an animal lover next, and will always be loved inspite of your torrents! For heavens sake, pl.keep your ignorance to yourself and don't disrobe in public!
Panache
Contact Panache
Tue Apr 03, 2007
shekhar's article
Shekhar did well by writing this article. There is no doubt that Steve loved wild life and at the same time it is also true that his behavior towards animals, bordering on obnoxious left a lot to be desired. He, I hear, contributed a lot towards the Australian zoo and for that he should be appreciated. As for the fact that he was 'universally loved', I can only say that he was most missed by the kind of people who went on a killing spree against innocent creatures following the sad accident.
Kylie
Contact Kylie
Tue Mar 06, 2007
Respect
I don't care what you think about Steve Irwin, but you should show respect for someone who was so dedicated in making a difference for the better. He accomplished many things, helped people understand aniamls. He played a great part in helping animals. it's a very big loss, that he is no longer with us. He was and still is my hero. And for the respect you don't give, "we" make up for it.
sfd
Contact sfd
Wed Jan 17, 2007
no....
Aleisha, indeed, there are many people who works in their profesion solely for the purpose of fame. Of course, Steve Irwin also worked for fame. But as you might have noticed, he hasn't used his fame to bad use. He instead used his fame to touch people's hearts and convince them that animals deserve places in the world and our mind and hearts. He also used his fame to earn millions for the conservation of endangered animals, tutoring people, educating kids, and take care and expanding his zoo. He doesn't keep his millions for his own indulgence I believe he lives in a normal, mid-sized three-bedroom home. His car isn't what you'd expect from a man who earned millions of dollars a year. He's a true modern animal conservationist, and I will continue to respect and defend him.
Aleisha Avatar
Contact Aleisha Avatar
Wed Jan 10, 2007
Steve Irwin
The article may have been a bit harsh, but the fact is, there are people in the wildlife area who are not truly working for the animals. While I personally think Steve Irwin was beneficial in calling attention to animals despite putting himself in danger that I am not sure was always wise, Jack Hanna is far more of a media whore and has actually harmed animals..... People love this guy and to me, he has always come off as a jerk.
I think everyone who wrote in to comment was probably 14 years old. It shows. You all need to learn that somewhere between your point of view and someone elses is probably where the truth lies. And don't believe everything you see/hear....a lot of times, it is carefully contrived.
Steve for Ever
Contact Steve for Ever
Tue Jan 09, 2007
OMFG
SHUT UP
Phil
Contact Phil
Wed Dec 20, 2006
Shut up
Shut up, Hillary, you are yourself no worse than Mr idiot Shekhar here. Apparently you two vegetables know nothing of Steve's work. What the hell gives you the confidence in talking about something you know jack about? Don't talk about something you don't know. Asses.
Hillary
Contact Hillary
Sun Dec 17, 2006
Won't Salute Steve Irwin
I understand why you won't salute Steve Irwin and I'm so sick of hearing about his death and this maybe wrong and everything. He knew the chances of dying, but he still did it and it was very stupid of him to do so. I'm also sick of hearing how he will be missed. Just leave him alone and he should know not mess with animals. They are wild, not pets Steve.
Mary
Contact Mary
Sun Dec 17, 2006
This is for you Shekhar Hattagadi
Mr Shekhar, apparently you know nothing about this great and honorable man Steve Irwin. As you can see by all the comments you have "Barked Up The Wrong Tree". If I was you, I would just shut your stinkign mouth because you know nothing. How dare you condem a universally loved man. ..who has made our world a better place. Do you think that your words mean anything to us...think again...they don't. You have just proven your stupidity to the world... That's fine with me, because no matter what you or anyone says, Steve Irwin has you beat any day. This compassionate, loving, caring, understanding wildlife warrior was exactly what you are not. Get a life!
Lynn
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Thu Dec 14, 2006
Steve Was Amazing
Sorry I don't agree. I think Steve was a true, avid animal lover, and your words are out of place, and they are just that, words, not facts. Shine on Steve, Shine on. We all love and miss you.
KayLee
Contact KayLee
Sun Dec 10, 2006
You Have Got To Be Kidding Me. I Can't Believe You!
Yuo really ought to be ashamed of yourself! So he poked around with a few animals, so what? He was a great man and I don't agree with those words and it makes me sad to read things like you are writing. Of course everyone is entitled to their own opinion but, I don't think Steve ever intended to hurt an animal and he was brave. I mean, would you have done the things he did? No way! He was so cool and a great guy. Just because he made a show about his adventures and it was a great hit, doesn't mean that he hurt the animals during the making. Most of the time he would help these animals. His family and friends are trying to get over the death of a great man. They don't need to be reading the horrible things you are putting on the internet. Grow up. Be a man. And you too could be killed by a dangerous creature. So stop whining b/c you can't be as great as Mr. Irwin. Respect that he saved many animals. And while you are reading this, think about getting a life. There is no need to be jealous!
becca
Contact becca
Fri Dec 08, 2006
Shekhar you idiot
You are so dumb! You have no right to say those lies and you know it! You are such a jerk I agree with Alex and Phill. I think you were not sadden at all!
D. Patel
Contact D. Patel
Fri Dec 08, 2006
What a Load of Rubbish!!
This article was written by someone with no basis whatsoever, but wrote to instigate trouble and nothing else. To try an compare white imperialism with an animal warrior is simply outrageous. My apologies to all animal lovers and Steve lovers across the world for the writer does not know what he is writing about. Steve was no God and did not try to be God; he was simply trying to show the world that animals exist on this planet that we know little about, whilst he had grown up with crocs his entire life. He names his daughter Bindi, an Indian name, albeit after his favourite croc, that says it all. He loved his family and it showed. He was a great human being and never said an unkind word about anyone else; how often can you say that about anybody these days? By the way, I also grew up around animals of all types in Africa, there was never at time that I did not have a cat or a dog beside me as a child. Later as I grew up and was around other Indians , I found out that Indians in general cannot stand cats! I found that rather amusing. My mother would tell me to get the animals out of the house before the relatives arrived. Some would not even step in the compound unless we told them outright that there were no animals around. As an adult I don't care what the relatives think anymore, I tell them to stay home if they don't like animals.
As far as encroaching on an animal's environment, we do this every day. Everytime Indians build a large fancy custom home with a large yard so that they can show off their wealth to others, they are encroaching on some animal species natural habitat. These poor animals lose their homes in the name of development, they are then subjected to being killed on roads whilst they are fleeing to find a better home. So let's not be hypocrites.
Alex
Contact Alex
Sat Dec 02, 2006
To Shekhar
You really ought to look into the facts of an incident before writing about it. You're a complete moron for writing an article on how much you hate someone you obviously don't know. Isn't it bad enough that the video of his death, one that none of his friends and family ever wanted released, may have been stolen? We, his fans, don't need people like you telling us how much you hate what he was trying to do, and that was to promote conservation, not become a TV star!
Syed
Contact Syed
Fri Dec 01, 2006
Lesson in a way
Yes Steve was a brave stuntman, I agree, all agree. But if Steve believed that he could master nature and wild, I don't agree. And if Shekhar meant that, then his time is worth here. And if comments suggest that Steve was a brave man. Yes he was, but died as a fool playing with wild.
Dill
Contact Dill
Thu Nov 30, 2006
I know why you won't salute Steve
So, after reading your irrelevant, yaddi-yadda article, I now know why you won't salute Steve: Why won't Shekhar salute Steve? Because he's jealous of Steve!! Haha, grow up, buddy. You are a grown man, maybe with a family, but you jump into conclusions without knowing the introduction. Mate, be a good role model for your kids and grow up.
Neesy
Contact Neesy
Wed Nov 29, 2006
Long Live Steve
Steve got people's attention in life and in death. He made people aware of wildlife and educated us. He dedicated his life to what he believed in. I commend him for showing his passion toward animals. If he was just a showman then why would he spend so much to preserve wildlife and expand Australia zoo? Steve never let fame get to his head. Personally, I couldn't get through this article before it began to read blah blah blah to me. I guess that is why I will always remember Steve because he was fun, educating yet entertaining and made me want to listen about animals. I wonder if one day people will remember Shekhar Hattangadi. Who?
Janie
Contact Janie
Tue Nov 28, 2006
Steve Irwin
Hmmmmm, do I sense jealousy? Never heard of you.....What have you done recently for conservation except to further cause emotional pain to his legion of fans, not to mention his family, by letting us know how painful his death was?
Steve Irwin salute! Shekhar Hattangadi Never heard of ya! Janie
Ami
Contact Ami
Mon Nov 27, 2006
Know the person before you make silly comments about him!
I simply could not believe the amount of ignorance displayed in this article! Has this person ever cared enough to watch the shows of Steve Irwin? Has he tried to take a look at what the ultimate goals that Steve tried to pursue by saving and then transferring animals into a safer habitat? I believe there is absoultely no depth to this article. I almost did not even think about bothering to make a comment, but would surely like to let you know that you are a heartless person, commenting on Steve's work that has been lauded by thousands of people around the world. At least, do some research before you say something derogatory about a personality like Steve Irwin.
Phil
Contact Phil
Mon Nov 27, 2006
Your conclusion....
The conclusion paragraph you have made is extremely, extremely, and horribly, wrong, and extremely, even more terribly, offensive. I hope you now know that your article speaks no truth at all. Do you have no feelings? Do you blatantly talk so degradingly about people you hardly know? You don't have to answer my questions - because everybody knows the answer is yes. "For a man who is said to have lived for animals, there could be no greater failure of his life-mission." How dare you. How dare you say that. How dare you, for mocking Steve and his life-long work. No, he has not failed. The only thing he failed in is to appeal to cold, heartless, monstrous people such as you.
krish
Contact krish
Mon Nov 27, 2006
Dot't salute, you ass
You butthead idiot, you should be ashamed of yourself and your article, you bought shame to your country. I miss Steve very much. may god bless his family. Dirk is right, post your picture up next time you write an article, we love to look at your f..... face.
abbey dawson
Contact abbey dawson
Sun Nov 26, 2006
steve irwin
I miss steve he was nice to every one I wonder who is going to take his place and he was a great man. All tears are falling by us he was the bravest person that ever lived. Now I have cared so much for him I am so sad.
jt
Contact jt
Thu Nov 23, 2006
Ignorant
This article is just one more piece of evidence that the internet has become a convenient toilet for ignorant people who would otherwise not have anyplace to spout their illogical rubbish. Shekhar, you are a leach who makes a living by taking advantage of tragedy and misfortune.
Jean
Contact Jean
Wed Nov 22, 2006
What?
Is this a joke? Please tell me you're kidding! You must be the stupidest thing on the planet to think that any of your lies are true! "Grappling" with the sting-ray? He was swimming above it, you idiot! What do you mean, "manhandled and bullied"? You try catching a crocodile gently, jerk! He wasn't trying to become more famous with his TV shows and everything, he was trying to get his conservation message to the world! I know he wasn't doing it for fame because he'd been doing long before he even had a show! You're a horrible person with no soul or feelings for anyone, and I bet you were just making this up as you go!
Abbey
Contact Abbey
Tue Nov 21, 2006
Steve Irwin
I was appalled at your article on Steve Irwin. You come across as nothing more than a bigot and a fool. Shame on you.
Philip
Contact Philip
Mon Nov 20, 2006
You're a crude idiot
Why? Because all you have in your so-called argument is fancy big words, attractive euphimisms and grammar suited for high-English professors. But what lacks from your argument is the truth. Steve is not whatever b...s... you stated here. He is a good, kind and wise man who dedicated his whole life to animals and family and friends. This maybe racist and general of me, but why is it that many Asians are so ignorant and misled about animals? I'm an Asian myself, and it's one of these qualities about us sometimes makes me ashamed of being an Asian. I want to become a vet, but the discrimination of some western people may prevent me from delivering my services. Discrimination that arose from simple minded vegetables such as you.
J.D.C.
Contact J.D.C.
Mon Nov 20, 2006
You idiot Shekhar
you have no clue on the number of people who love and respect Steve Irwin. you are as bad as South Park in the way you treat his death. i think he was the best animal person in the universe. He showed nothin but respect toward the animals and the zoo. Try watching his show you stupid moron.
Andrew
Contact Andrew
Sun Nov 19, 2006
Steve Is A Hero
What the hell gives you the right to think you can insult Steve Irwin. How dare you! You are a sad sad man. Get a brain, more like get a life!. On your "apparently grappling" he was nowhere near it, he swam over the top. It was just a freak accident, stop making up lies just to make urself look like a better person. It's making uou look like a total ***wit. I'm sick of hearing jokes and lies about Steve. He is my hero and alot of other peoples. Loser you are. R.I.P Stevo. Love you mate.
Mick
Contact Mick
Sun Nov 19, 2006
I hope articles like this will become extinct
Steve Irwin was an entertainer. This was his way of promoting wildlife conservation. There is nothing wrong with supporting a life mission in an unconventional way. Steve's legacy will live on - proof that "there could be no greater failure of his life-mission" is a load of rubbish. But perhaps there's one endangered species we may prefer not to save or even look at on television documentaries - Shekhar Hattangadi, a journalist who deep down actually wants to be the Crocodile Hunter and has proven his speed and agility by posting his article long before researching the facts.
Thashkyl
Contact Thashkyl
Sun Nov 19, 2006
Why I Won't Salute Shekhar!
By now you must have realised how many mistakes you have made in the article regarding the facts about Steve! He was a great person, loved the animals and educated so many people around the world through his exciting personlaity. So I recommend you write another article, admitiing the false facts regarding the great guy we all love!
justin
Contact justin
Sat Nov 18, 2006
Why dont you like him?
If you don't appreciate what Steve and his family did for these animals, then you shouldn't even announce it to the world. My goal in life, was to meet the crocodile hunter and work side by side with him while catching crocs. Now that he is gone, I'm looking for jobs at other zoos and I'm still wanting to work at the Australia zoo. when I saw a tribute to Steve, I was in tears almost, and was even closer when Steve's daughter Bindi Sue sadly talked. He was the best wildlife warrior in the world. I really want to do what Steve did and help our animals of the world. I've already bred a pair of leopard guecos, and I have in the past few years bred all kinds of reptiles and other animals such as: snakes, rabbits, turtles, frogs, and many more species.
My uncle had an alligator that he had for a while, and then he donated it to the zoo. along with that, my friend had donated rare turtle species to the same zoo. Anyway, Steve was the best wildlife warrior and the best conservationists in the world.
Santhosh Hosdurg
Contact Santhosh Hosdurg
Sat Nov 18, 2006
Transition of Steve Irwin..
Steve was a hero. He showed the world what reptiles and animals are really like and why we need to conserve them. Steve evolved as a human to a stage where he considered himself to be part of this universe and bonded with all creations of this mortal world. He respected the life of reptiles he used to handle, some times injuring them but that was only to give them a safer place to grow in abundance.
The author has unneccasrily given a racial color to this article by stating "If his Caucasian forefathers colonized and subjugated the dark-skinned natives of the American, African, Asian and Australian continents, Steve Irwin had set his sights on the entire animal kingdom". The fact about colonization is true, but not relavant as far as Steve Irwin's case.
I have watched most of the shows hosted by Steve. He has evolved from a performer to a human who cares for reptiles and animals. Some of his acts may be considered as rare opportunity by others and may have got him fame, but let us not deny he was a reptile lover. In fact when we heard about Steve's death, we were shocked...he was young, energetic. We badly miss Steve. Steve wanted to built a zoo in the US, wanted his children to enjoy dual nationality, he had plans for his children and also plans to educate the world about the reptile world. This article would have done much benefit if Steve was very much with us and we would have got answers from him for the views aired by author. Steve was frank and honest. He did not hire a PR agency to guide what not to speak during television shows. Whatever one might say, you just can't deny Steve was an animal lover.
Brandon Greiner
Contact Brandon Greiner
Fri Nov 17, 2006
What?
Listen Shekhar, I don't know why that is your opinion, but Chris was certainly right! Do you actually think that's all Steve cared for was fame? Maybe you should try watching some of his shows, like Croc Diaries. You should know that it was the media that ruined Steve Irwin; not his actions. That thing he did with his baby wasn't even that bad. The stingray now; he was swimming over it and it just hit him. Do you live under a rock or something? Are you literally so stupid that you actually believe the mind-poisioning words of the public media? You need help my friend...
Chris
Contact Chris
Fri Nov 17, 2006
Why I won't Salute Steve Irwin
I would like to comment on several inaccuracies and biases in your article: Steve was not "grappling with the sting-ray" he was just swimming above it. Why do you say he "trespassed into the habitats" ? As far as I know he has not been prosecuted or fined for being somewhere he was not supposed to be.
It is also sad you are trying to play a "race card" in your arguments too. You do also know that he named his daughter after both his beloved dog and also his beloved crocodile? Finally, sadly yes, there are idiots in any population. Approximately ten stingrays were sadly killed following Steve's death. How many people involved? Let's be generous and say 3 for each stingray - 30 idiots compared to a population of millions who learned respect for nature and conservation from this man. It is again very revealing and sad to see on which percentage you focused.
kai
Contact kai
Fri Nov 17, 2006
Steve was a Hero
For a start, the article was incorrect. He loved animals and was showing people how dangerous they can be. It is really sad to see you write this rubbish because what have you done with your life? Just sit around slacking off heros on the net.
Last of all why would anyone really care what you have to say about that you wont salute steve irwin? Didn't your mother ever say "if you have nothing nice to say dont say anything at all"
John Grim
Contact John Grim
Fri Nov 17, 2006
Steve Irwin
I was shocked and saddened to read of Steve's death while on vacation in SF. I still see his videos and find it hard to believe that someone as vibrant and alive as Steve is really dead. My heart goes out to Steve, his wife and children, his father and his staff at the zoo. I miss Steve and what future events and adventures he may have had for us. Crikey he was a good ambassador......
Professor Dr. Fran Rauscher
Contact Professor Dr. Fran Rauscher
Fri Nov 17, 2006
Steve Irwin's Legacy
Steve Irwin was a conservationist, not out for his own gain. Anyone who has ever visited Austraia Zoo knows that the animals who live there are among the happpiest one can see. Steve's legacy lies with their legacies and with our respect for their time on this planst. He truly loved the animals, and the world of conservation is at a great loss due to his passing.
Dane
Contact Dane
Thu Nov 16, 2006
One man..one hero..one true legend
Mate, get your facts right. Do you get some sort of pleasure out of making up false reports. Steve Irwin was not only our hero, he was a hero to the animals. If you have nothing nice to say, dont say nothing at all. If i could lay my life down so steve could be here today, I would. Steve Irwin is a true Aussie hero. So get it into your thick head Shekhar Hattangadi, otherwise go to hell with anyone else who wants to disrspect the most passionate man you'll ever meet. We miss you Steve, but yo arer always in our hearts.
Lilia Ricci
Contact Lilia Ricci
Thu Nov 16, 2006
Crocodile Hunter
Why? Why? Why did he have to die before I saw him? I swore that after high school and college I would gather my money and go meet my role model. Ever since I saw his show I wanted to be a marinbiologist. I might not be able to make a show like he did, but damnit I wanted to help animals after I met him. The day I found out about his death, I cried and me and my friend at school cried. Because he was our inspiration and he drove us to want to be more then the doctor or lawyer. We wanted to show him that we could change the world. And what I don't understan is how people can talk about him in such a way. Without his guidance and his shows and such I would have never known most of these animals existed. Do you prefer us to support animals being killed because we didn't know about them. And shame on the people who do kill stingrays because of Steve! It's not his fault that they are misinformed! And I say he hasn't killed an animal at all and he was teaching his children well about animals! Please send me some type of response you person! I am more sad then pissed and this kind of stuff just make me remember him! How can speak about someone who has inspired so many!
Not Shekhar Hattangadi, that's for sure
Contact Not Shekhar Hattangadi, that's for sure
Thu Nov 16, 2006
Shekhar Hattangadi Nobody likes you
Nobody likes you. All seven of your wives probably hate you.
Patty
Contact Patty
Thu Nov 16, 2006
Why I Won't Salute Steve Irwin
Dear Mr. Hattangadi: Have you ever heard the phrase "Fifty million French men can't be wrong?" I hope you read all these comments and see how much Steve Irwin was loved and what a positive influence he had on people and how much he loved animals. I hope the Irwin family never sees your article.
Helen
Contact Helen
Thu Nov 16, 2006
Steve Irwin was amazing - duh
You're analogies are pretty lame. I'm 14 and my passion is the environment. My environmental inspiration has always been Steve Irwin. I search Google news every day to see of anymore Steve news and I sadly came across this. This article has pretty much upset me more than a guy I like breaking my heart. This has hurt me worse than that - and that's rare. So... what have you done to save the environment and wildlife lately? Donated 40 million dollars just to wildlife recently? Doubt it.
Steve Irwin has done more than any politician could do to help the world. No other environmentalist has made a huge impact like him. So what are you getting around here? Just cause he jumped on crocs, he wasn't treating animals properly? Dude, he was bloody well helping this world!
He did so much, do you not appreciate that at all? Do you not salute to all the help he's done to the world? Did you ever consider that? Damn, I'm 14 and my definition on life is better than yours. Think about it. Just seriously think about it. If we were more like him, maybe us humans wouldn't be so hindsighted.
andrew
Contact andrew
Thu Nov 16, 2006
Steve Irwin
Steve Irwin was my hero. How dare you disrespect him. How do you think Terry or Bindi or Bob would feel if they read this. You need to get your facts right and stop dissin a well loved man. I am ashamed that you would even write that. How about you go risk your life mate. Yeeh right, you'r a tosser. Get a life. Steve Irwin, true hero.
Dirk
Contact Dirk
Thu Nov 16, 2006
Steve Irwin
Post your picture up next time you write an article. We the people need to see the face of an alien from another solar system once and for all. We all would appreciate it kind reptilian shape changer.
C.T.
Contact C.T.
Thu Nov 16, 2006
Why I won't salute Steve Irwin
When is this pseudo-outrage going to stop? All for a very overrated man who promoted sensationalistic tripe more than he promoted enviromentalism. His death is a very sad affair indeed but even sadder is all this hypocritical trumping of his so-called legacy. Steve Irwin was just at the wrong place at the wrong time. The media's portraying him as a martyr is unfounded and just another extension of the cheap sensationalism Steve Irwin resorted to during his life.
Malachi Ritscher... now there's a man who really died for what he believed in, the extremity of his methods nonwithstanding. Where's all the fanfare and celebration for him? Is this what death boils to? Significance being judged based on fame?
The backlash on your reasoned, and very rational article is just crazy. Some of the replies come off as very foolish indeed, even sinking to personal insults. Particularly laughable is one "Lesley Murphy"'s naive comments on the nature of media and social significance coupled with the assertation that his childish opnions carry more weight because he is is a post-graduate/journalist.
Renee
Contact Renee
Wed Nov 15, 2006
Steve Irwin...
Why do people think Steve Irwin is bad? He is the world's greatest entertainer, ever! At first I kept watching him on Kids Central in Singapore, not knowing who he was (at the time, beginning 2006), I loved his actions, his attitude towards wildlife, and his emotions. To me, Steve Irwin was my Hero, my inspiration. He will be in my heart forever. Renne Aged: 13 (May 8, 1993)
Susan
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Wed Nov 15, 2006
Hattangadi article
I'm so glad that you posted this article, Shekhar. It serves as proof that persons such as you and Germaine Greer manipulate and use the media for your own personal spotlight. Anyone who knows anything about Steve Irwin can spot falicies in your story a mile away. If you don't believe me, just review the feedback. This is, obviously, an attempt to show boat and gain attention. Only a neanderthal would want to attract negative attention. Enjoy.
Joe Nealand
Contact Joe Nealand
Wed Nov 15, 2006
Steve Irwin
Your writing seems nothing more than to try and bash, in your words "the white man". It's pathetic that you feel you have to use the name of a great man like Steve Irwin as a means to promote your own career and obvious prejudice. He constantly educated people of the world about wildlife consevation. What have you done for this cause? You are a pitiful person and should be ashamed of yourself and your article.
Debbie Reiter
Contact Debbie Reiter
Wed Nov 15, 2006
Steve Irwin
How dare you bash Steve Irwin! Yea, he is gorgeous, talented and charismatic. He taught the world about animals all over the world, most I have never seen before. He had a passion for protecting them from people like you, who are probably afraid of your own shadow. He showed us how to love the animals of the earth instead of killing them for sport or fear. To you ignorance is bliss, but to most of us only knowledge will save the animals as well as Mother Earth.
Cheerleader Chick
Contact Cheerleader Chick
Wed Nov 15, 2006
Him
It was really hard to know he was killed and to his family I am praying for you
lesley Murphy
Contact lesley Murphy
Wed Nov 15, 2006
Why I wont salute Steve Irwin
Dear Mr Hattangadi, In regards to your statement on Steve Irwin I would like to say a few words. I am a journalist post graduate and found your words to be very ignorant. Mr Steve Irwin has done more for conservation of the world than any other human being in this world. Yes maybe he used the media to help minipulate his mission, but who are you to talk when your paying wage is also made from a job in media? You should sit and think long and hard about what mark you will leave on this society and if you will be changing the world for the future of our next generation before you criticise others. If only the world was full of men with the same intent as Steve Irwin this world wouldnt be in the state it's in.
alison
Contact alison
Wed Nov 15, 2006
Steve Irwin
You disrespectful idiot. Steve irwin more than accomplished what he set out to do - he was a hero to millions all around the world and the fact that we are here defending him against a prat like you proves that. Please do some research before you write a pointless and horrible article like that. It's people like you who ruin the good memories that we all have of heros live Steve. So in conclusion shut up, you idiot.
Bunnie
Contact Bunnie
Wed Nov 15, 2006
STEVE IRWIN
Steve was the best and loved animals. He taught the world a lot. Don't put some one down who did good in this world. It broke my heart and others when he was killed, but he will live on for ever. God Bless Steve and his family.
Linda
Contact Linda
Wed Nov 15, 2006
Seve Irwin
Steve Irwin should be a role model for all. His love of animals will live on as it should. You people who have posted negatice comments obviously don't care about helping animals at all. My only regret is that there is one less wildlife warrior in the world.
Megan
Contact Megan
Tue Nov 14, 2006
What is wrong with you?
What the hell is wrong with you? Do you see how many people have reacted to your dumb article? they all think you are a f******* idiot! you had no right to say what you did! You didn't even know him. You don't know half of what he did for animals and endangered species. Some people just want to get attention. And listen here whatever your name is, next time you are going to write an article about a person, you better get your F****** facts straight! becuase what you wrote about steve is complete bull****! You need to think before you speak, and don't just assume what you want, because what have you done for animals and the environment, nothing! He is one of the world's greatest wildlife conservationists.
Debra
Contact Debra
Tue Nov 14, 2006
Steve Irwin
Shekhar Hattangadi. Your article is unresearched and shameful. The events surrounding Steve's death are wrong. The baby Bob incident involved a crock that had been fed prior to the snack chicken offered by Steve and was not hungry as you stated. All the money Steve made went right back into his zoo and conservation efforts. He gave his all and will be remembered as a great man. Idiots like you will fade away. Care enough about your job to get your basic facts straight. Crikey!!
Brad
Contact Brad
Tue Nov 14, 2006
Why I won't salute Steve Irwin article
What a load of rubbish your article is. Firstly, how about you gather the facts before making your absurd assumptions. Irwin did not 'grapple' with a stingray, nor did he dangle his one-month old baby in front of a crocodile. You have tried to use Irwin as a symbol for you to launch a racist attack against white people. Do some research -- Irwin had close ties with aboriginal communities in Queensland. Focus your attention on something worthwhile, rather than trying to grab some fleeting moments of recognition by launching an unfair attack at one of the world's greatest ever conservationists.
Christine
Contact Christine
Tue Nov 14, 2006
Steve Irwin
He did'nt deserve to get killed you heartless F.... I wouldn't salute a stupid d... like you!
Melanie Dube
Contact Melanie Dube
Tue Nov 14, 2006
Quote
In reference to the quote from the article "Why I won't salute Steve Irwin" It stated, "He was apparently grappling with the sting-ray, which reacted in self-defence." The law enforcement and coroner that reviewed the tape of the incident all claimed he was not harassing the sting-ray but simply swimming above it. You may want to get your information correct before publicly posting it. The public has had enough of reporters taking liberty and changing and twisting it without regard for the truth.
Jason Wakefield
Contact Jason Wakefield
Tue Nov 14, 2006
Steve Irwin
All I can say about your article on Steve Irwin is you are an idiot with nothing better to do than bash someone to make yourself feel better. By the way I am a herpetologist, what are you? Oh ya, an idiot.
Steve Irwin ROX
Contact Steve Irwin ROX
Tue Nov 14, 2006
Go save the planet yourself
Let me ask you, what have you done to save this planet? Are you just writing to criticize a man that has devoted his life to making people aware of nature? Sometimes people need a more dramatic approach to be moved into action. He wasn't grappling with the ray, get your facts right.
Brenda Crank
Contact Brenda Crank
Tue Nov 14, 2006
Steve Irwin
Come on, admit it, you never really watched one of his shows did you? Not only that you failed to even read the actual accounts of how the guy died. Grappled? Nope, this is blatantly false. What a sad, uninformed article.
Judy
Contact Judy
Tue Nov 14, 2006
Why I Won't Salute Steve Irwin
I am speechless as I am so many times as I read negative comments from names I've never heard of. He was a man, a mere man, with flaws who tried - in his own way - to do something good. Not your way, perhaps not mine, irrelevant - have we promoted the good of conservation as much as he did? His start in "manhandling" wildlife was to relocate crocs as opposed to killing them. They, the crocs, were in "our" territory, in our way. Rather than kill them he relocated them. Then he moved on to educating us as to other animals. Can we learn about them without seeing them firsthand? I am so insulted reading this commentary that a "fellow human being" wrote it. How shallow, how hollow. What have you done for conservation? I don't know your name other than this meaningless commentary. What have you done to promote a man-animal environment?
Cathy
Contact Cathy
Mon Nov 13, 2006
Why I won't salute Steve Irwin article
To Shekhar Hattangadi, You obviously know nothing of what Steve has done for conservation. It goes way beyond Crocodile Hunter. It was a life long commitment that started with his father. Maybe you should educate yourself before you write an article on someone you have no clue about.
Charla
Contact Charla
Mon Nov 13, 2006
Steve Irwin
Don't you people get it? Steve Irwin understood human behavior. He understood that by getting people to love animals they would want to protect them. A person who shows their enthusiasm and has the ability to touch a person's heart can achieve great things, and that is what Steve and Terri Irwin have done. I am so sick of hearing about the “baby Bob’ incident. I was brought up on a farm. I played with snakes and mice and fed sow's that were twice my size which could have hurt me. It was the life that I lived. If someone were to put a 4 year old in to feed a big old Sow today people like you would be throwing a fit. They live in a Zoo people. It is the life that they live; thank God there are people like them that are truly fighting for the animals.
michael londregan
Contact michael londregan
Mon Nov 13, 2006
shekhar the critic
what a boof head. what a shame that this neville is hell bent on rating style points instead of outcomes. for every one of these sit in the corner critics i hear thousands of supporters. we salute you steve - perhaps all dont agree with your way - but having seen the results your dad was right "the animals have lost the best friend they had".
Suzanna
Contact Suzanna
Mon Nov 13, 2006
Why I won't salute Steve Irwin
You obviously haven't done your homework. First of all, Steve wasn't "grappling" with a ray. Who are your sources? Well, they suck. Many current filmmakers use the same tactics as Steve did without getting the same bad rap. Never since M.O.O.'s Wild Kingdom has any animal show been as popular and has gotten kids to aspire to help the animals and the planet they live on. Stand proud next to the others who enjoy degrading those who can't speak for themselves. Where were you when he was alive? I hope no one ever subjects your family to hurtful words or actions such as you have done. Stop pouring salt on their wounds. Shame on you.
Suzanna, Austin, TX.
Lisa
Contact Lisa
Mon Nov 13, 2006
Who is this guy??
I hope this person can live with all decisions he makes since he is all when comes to judging others. People sure like to come out of the wood work to speak their opinion, like they have one. There is always one who thinks they know better, especially when the one they are talking about can't defend himself |
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