The animal rights organisation PETA has launched a blistering public attack on television presenter and conservationist Robert Irwin, calling on him to halt the alleged exploitation of animals on the set of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!.
A Public Plea to the Wildlife Warrior
In a scathing open letter published on 13 January 2026, the American group appealed directly to the 22-year-old son of the late Steve Irwin. PETA urged Irwin to leverage his new role as co-host of the Channel Ten reality show's upcoming season to instigate change.
The letter implored Irwin to "urge I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! producers to stop exploiting animals" as a show of respect for all species. It accused the programme of a decade-long pattern of using and abusing creatures for entertainment.
"For a decade, the show has used and abused hundreds of rats, insects, arachnids, and reptiles, who are tossed around, grabbed, and crawled over for touch tank challenges, and eaten during tucker trials," the letter stated.
Specific Allegations of Mistreatment
PETA's critique extended beyond insects and small animals. The group claimed the series unfairly portrays larger wildlife, stating it "exploits crocodiles, painting them as bloodthirsty human hunters" despite their complex, sensitive nature.
Similarly, the organisation argued spiders are framed as "fearsome foes" when they are gentle creatures. The letter also referenced past controversies, citing the use of a white lion and a leopard cub in 2016. PETA noted such cubs can never return to the wild and are often sold to "canned hunters."
It is important to note that Robert Irwin was not involved with the production in 2016. He replaced veterinarian Dr Chris Brown as co-host in 2024.
A Question of Responsibility and Reputation
The letter concluded with a powerful challenge to Irwin's personal brand as a conservationist. PETA drew a direct comparison, suggesting if a host famed for protecting dogs presided over a show where dogs were mistreated, the public would question their dedication.
"As someone known for representing wildlife, you have great power – and responsibility – to help animals by steering I'm a Celebrity... in a kinder direction," PETA wrote.
The public appeal coincides with reports of Irwin's soaring television career. According to a recent claim by New Idea, networks may now have to pay up to $3 million per season to secure his services, with significant interest reportedly coming from American television following his success on Dancing with the Stars US.
Daily Mail has approached Channel Ten for comment.
