Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were reportedly rebuffed in Australia during their tour earlier this month when they sought a meeting with Robert Irwin and his family at Australia Zoo in Queensland.
According to claims carried by celebrity outlets, the Irwins declined because of theirloyalty to Prince William and the Royal Family.
Australian magazineNew IdeaandWonderwall.comsaid Meghan Markle, 44, was particularly keen to meet 22-year-old Robert Irwin at Australia Zoo in Queensland. The son of the late conservationist Steve Irwin has built his own profile as a television presenter and wildlife advocate, and now fronts several global environmental campaigns.
An insider quotedbyNewIdeaalleged that the couple's team made overtures to the Irwins about a possible appearance or private time together at the zoo. The same source claimed that 'aligning with the Irwins' worthy causes is something that Meghan and Harry could be on board with', suggesting the Sussexes saw a natural fit between their own charitable branding and the family's conservation work.
However, the invitation was said to have been 'politely declined'. The Irwins were described as 'staunch monarchists' who remain 'fiercely loyal to The Firm' and, crucially, to the Prince of Wales. One insider suggested Robert Irwin in particular 'didn't want to upset William' by being seen publicly with the Sussexes during a tour already being cast as a challenge to the established royal order. There was no confirmation or denial of the approach.
The Irwins' links to the monarchy are long-standing. Steve Irwin's family have joined the Royal Family for a number of engagements over the past decade, including an appearance with King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) in 2018. In 2024, Robert travelled to South Africa as an ambassador for Prince William's Earthshot Prize.
The suggestion that the Irwins declined to see Meghan Markle and Prince Harry out of loyalty to Prince William speaks to the reality of the royal rift now playing out far beyond palace walls.
Sources cited byNew Ideastressed that the family bore 'no ill-will' towards the Sussexes, but believed it was 'just not possible' to welcome them without giving the impression of taking sides.
The reported snub landed at an awkward moment for Meghan and Harry. Friends quoted by Wonderwall.com insisted the Australian itinerary was a 'blueprint for the future' and proof that their 'half in, half out' model is functioning.
Meanwhile, the most contentious element of the trip was a Sydney-based wellness weekender branded Her Best Life, where guests reportedly paid up to $3,199 for VIP packages that promised an intimate, empowering experience with the Duchess of Sussex.
Source: International Business Times UK
