Crikey! It's the Irwins

Crikey! It's the Irwins
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Crikey! It's the Irwins features the late Steve Irwin's family as they continue his work in wildlife conservation. While the series is upbeat and mild, there are images of animals' bloody wounds from attacks, as well as descriptions of what dangers handling some animals can pose. Animal surgeries are sometimes shown, and dead (including stillborn) animals are briefly visible. It's all shown in context but might be scary or disturbing for younger or sensitive viewers. It's full of strong pro-animal messages, but also promotes the Australia Zoo and its various programs. Excerpts from some of Irwin's other shows are featured, too.
Community Reviews
A great family show
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What's the Story?
CRIKEY! IT'S THE IRWINS is a reality show about how the Irwin family is honoring the late Australian animal conservationist Steve Irwin's (aka the Crocodile Hunter) legacy. Siblings Bindi and Robert, along with their mom, Terri Irwin, enthusiastically work with the staff at the Australia Zoo in Queensland to make sure that the thousands of animals at the site are healthy and happy. They also continue to learn everything they can about each species in order to do what they can to make sure they don't go into extinction.
Is It Any Good?
This cheery, positive series highlights the efforts being made to continue Steve Irwin's work at the Australia Zoo. From helping a koala with a pair of developing twin joeys to training teenager Robert to lead the popular croc show in the zoo's Crocoseum, the likable Irwin trio showcase the expanded preserve and how they work with the many animals they are responsible for. They also highlight the different ways the zoo staff works with the animals to ensure their health, improve their breeding potential, and make sure they're happy in their habitats.
Not surprisingly, there are lots of references to Steve Irwin, including excerpts from his other shows, where he's shown in different parts of the world interacting with different animals. He's also shown discussing, and sharing moments with, his children. But rather than creating overemotional moments, these scenes are used to celebrate the conservationist's life and to highlight how much he continues to be part of people's (and animals') lives today. Overall, Crikey! It's the Irwins may feel a bit nostalgic, but it offers a very contemporary look at Australian animal conservation.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Steve Irwin. How has his work in wildlife conservation impacted animals around the world over the years?
What kinds of things does Crikey! It's the Irwins teach about different species of animals? Which animals are your favorite? Why?
TV Details
- Premiere date: October 28, 2018
- Cast: Terri Irwin, Bindi Irwin, Robert Irwin
- Network: Animal Planet
- Genre: Reality TV
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters, Great Boy Role Models, Great Girl Role Models, Wild Animals
- Character Strengths: Communication, Compassion, Curiosity, Teamwork
- TV rating: TV-Y7
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: July 1, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
For kids who love animals
Character Strengths
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