Discovery Mourns Loss of Irwin

SILVER SPRING, September 5: Animal Planet channels in the
U.S. and around the world are gearing up to showcase a slate of programming
honoring Steve Irwin, the popular wildlife TV personality who passed away
yesterday after being stung by a stingray barb while filming in the Great
Barrier Reef.

Irwin, known as the “Crocodile Hunter”, was just 44. “He
died doing what he loves best,'' Irwin's friend and producer John Stainton said
in a statement from the Australia Zoo, Irwin's reptile and wildlife park. Irwin
was in the Great Barrier Reef as part of a filming expedition for Animal
Planet.

Irwin rose to international fame following the release of The
Crocodile Hunter. He went on to film Croc
Files and The Crocodile Hunter. He is survived by his wife Terri and two children,
son Bob and daughter Bindi.

“Steve was a larger than life force,” said John Hendricks,
founder and chairman of Discovery Communications. “He brought joy and learning
about the natural world to millions and millions of people across the globe. He
was a true friend to all of us at Discovery Communications. We extend our
thoughts and prayers to Terri, Bindi and Bob Irwin as well as to the incredible
staff and many friends Steve leaves behind."

Discovery Networks International’s president Dawn McCall
added, “Rarely has the world embraced an animal enthusiast and conservationist
as they did Steve Irwin. Steve’s passion for animals and leadership in
conservation awareness leaves a powerful and lasting legacy across the globe.”

Animal Planet in the United States began its tribute
programming last night. On September 10, Animal Planet U.S. plans to air an
all-day marathon tribute. Animal Planet International in markets around the
world will provide the same programming.

Further, Discovery will rename the garden space in front of
Discovery's world headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland, the "Steve
Irwin Memorial Garden." The company is planning to create the Steve Irwin
Crocodile Hunter Fund—nicknamed "The Crikey Fund"—for
wildlife protection, education and conservation. The Fund will provide support
to Irwin’s Australia Zoo in Beewah, Australia, as well as educational support
for his children.