Bindi Irwin Opens Up About Abusive Grandfather

On Father’s Day, Bindi Irwin shared a Facebook post declaring that the three most important men in her life are her father, Steve Irwin, her husband, Chandler Powell, and her father-in-law, Chris Powell. On the post, she excluded her grandfather, Bob Irwin and explained that because of his emotional abuse, they did not have a good relationship.

“My dad taught me the importance of strength when standing up for what I believe in and to have empathy for all living beings. My husband amazes me every day with his kind and steadfast heart, his love for our daughter is infinite. My father-in-law works tirelessly for his family and is always there with a word of encouragement,” Bindi wrote in the post. “These extraordinary men inspire me and I love them so very much.”

People wondered why she excluded her grandfather Bob from the tribute.

“Unfortunately my grandfather Bob has shown no interest in spending time with me or my family,” she said in her response. “Publicly he continues to claim that he wants to spend time with us while privately my entire life has been psychological abuse from him.”

She said she believes it is for the better to not “engage in an abusive relationship.”

“From the time I was a little girl he has ignored me, preferring to spend time doing anything else rather than being with me. He has never [said] a single kind word to me personally. It breaks my heart but it is not healthy to engage in an abusive relationship,” she said.

Bindi claimed that her mother, Terri Irwin, has also been ignored by Bob. Additionally, Bindi said that their family has been helping Bob financially since 1992, after his retirement from Australia Zoo. They support him by sending him weekly funds and a house was also built for Bob.

“I want Bob’s happiness in life but I cannot be victim to his mental abuse anymore,” she said. “I hope everyone remembers to be kind to one another but most of all care for your own mental health. I have struggled with this relationship my entire life and it brings me enormous pain. I have to choose to care for my own mental health now.”