Rorie Buckey, known for her relationship with Robert Irwin and her family connection to the late actor Heath Ledger, has gained attention as an up-and-coming public figure in Australia. As a Perth native, Buckey grew up in Western Australia and is currently pursuing a degree in physiotherapy at Curtin University. Although she tends to maintain a private lifestyle, her relationship with Irwin brought her into the spotlight, introducing her to fans of both the Irwin family and her late uncle’s legacy.
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Personal Life and Career
Though still early in her career, Rorie Buckey has shown an interest in wildlife and conservation. This connection deepened during her relationship with Irwin, who is part of Australia Zoo and is a dedicated wildlife conservationist. Buckey even added “Wildlife Warrior” to her Instagram bio during their time together, showing her support for the Irwin family’s conservation efforts. However, she has since removed the title, sparking speculation on her ongoing involvement with the Zoo following their split. Nonetheless, Buckey remains focused on her academic pursuits in physiotherapy, which has been her primary career goal.
Relationship with Robert Irwin
Rorie Buckey and Robert Irwin reportedly began dating in 2022, although they kept their relationship mostly private until mid-2023 when they attended several public events together. Notably, they appeared at the Australian premiere of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One and at the prestigious Earthshot Prize in Singapore. Their relationship attracted media attention not only because of Irwin’s celebrity status as the son of the legendary “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin but also because of Buckey’s connection to Ledger, bringing fans of both families into their story.
On February 17, 2024, the couple publicly announced their split. They each shared an Instagram story expressing mutual respect and gratitude for the time spent together, clarifying that they intended to go separate ways amicably. Following the split, both parties removed or privatized posts relating to each other. Robert Irwin, who shared a close family moment on Instagram after the breakup, emphasized the importance of his family support system, including his sister Bindi Irwin and mother Terri Irwin. Although Irwin and Buckey continue to follow each other on social media, their posts no longer reflect the romantic chapter they shared.
Connection to Heath Ledger
Rorie Buckey is often associated with her late uncle Heath Ledger, the celebrated Australian actor known for his work in films such as Brokeback Mountain and The Dark Knight. Ledger’s untimely passing in 2008 left a significant impact on Buckey’s family, with his legacy continuing to inspire fans and family members alike. Though Buckey was only a young child when Ledger passed away, she has grown up in the shadow of his enduring fame, which has naturally influenced public interest in her life. However, Buckey maintains a focus on her own pursuits and aspirations, balancing her private nature with the public curiosity that comes with her family ties.
FAQs about Rorie Buckey
1. Who is Rorie Buckey?
Rorie Buckey is an Australian student known for her relationship with Robert Irwin and as the niece of the late actor Heath Ledger. She is currently studying physiotherapy at Curtin University in Perth.
2. How did Rorie Buckey and Robert Irwin meet?
Though the exact details of their meeting are private, Buckey and Irwin started dating in 2022 and made several public appearances together in 2023, confirming their relationship.
3. Why did Rorie Buckey and Robert Irwin break up?
In February 2024, both Buckey and Irwin announced their decision to part ways. They expressed mutual respect and gratitude for their time together, but they did not disclose specific reasons for the breakup.
4. What is Rorie Buckey studying?
Rorie Buckey is studying physiotherapy at Curtin University in Perth, focusing on a career in healthcare.
5. Is Rorie Buckey involved in wildlife conservation?
During her relationship with Robert Irwin, Rorie supported Australia Zoo and even updated her social media bio to include “Wildlife Warrior.” However, her current involvement with conservation efforts is unclear following their separation.
6. How is Rorie Buckey related to Heath Ledger?
Rorie Buckey is Heath Ledger’s niece. Her mother, Kate Ledger, is Heath Ledger’s sister. Heath Ledger passed away in 2008, and his legacy has influenced public interest in his family members.
Buckey’s story is a blend of personal ambition and her family’s storied history, resonating with fans of both her late uncle and the Irwin family’s legacy in wildlife conservation. While her relationship with Irwin has ended, Buckey’s future remains promising as she continues to focus on her studies and personal goals
