After revealing the “psychological abuse” she endured at the hands of her grandfather, Bob, Bindi Irwin has chosen to step away from social media to focus on herself and her family.
Celebrating Father’s Day in the United States, Bindi shared three images of “the three most incredible fathers in my life”, which included her husband Chandler Powell, her father Steve Irwin and her father-in-law Chris Powell.
But when one commenter asked about the absence of her grandfather, she revealed that Bob is no longer a part of her life, after years of “mental abuse” that resulted in causing her “enormous pain”.
Following immense public outrage, some against Bob Irwin and others—namely her father’s side of the family—against herself, Bindi has chosen to step away from social media for the time being.
Sharing an incredibly sweet photo of herself with her daughter, Grace Warrior Irwin Powell, she responded to those questioning her statement.
“Hi guys, Just a note to say thank you for your support,” she wrote.
“I’m taking a break from social media and most of my work in the public eye for a month to be with my beautiful daughter and my wonderful family.”
“Thank you for sharing and speaking your truth. To my friends who are dealing with depression, anxiety and other battles every day—I see you. These issues are very real and deserve to be discussed and addressed,” she continued.
“Surround yourself with the light of people who genuinely care about you and will support you during the good times and the hard times… Mental health deserves more understanding and support instead of being dismissed or patronised. You are absolutely worthy of love and kindness.”
As for Bob’s take on Bindi’s accusations, his family have chosen to publicly defend him amidst it all.
“Dad is the most amazing father, grandfather and great grandfather,” Bob’s daughter, Mandy Johnstone, revealed according to the Daily Telegraph.
Praising her father, she explained that he is a huge part of her family, insinuating that the accusations against him were fabricated.
“He always said to watch out for humans, they’re the ones that can be nasty. Stephen said the same. Why can’t people just leave him alone and let him live his life.”
Either way, it looks as if the truth will remain within the Irwin family.
