Robert Irwin Tries S’pore Durian; Says It’s Good but Shows Pained Reaction

Australian conservationist Robert Irwin faced his toughest challenge yet on his trip to Singapore.

The son of the late great Steve Irwin, Robert has been following in his father’s footsteps in wildlife education.

Sometimes this meant feeding massive crocodiles or being bitten by snakes.

Yet even a 1,000 kg scaly beast from the dinosaur times paled in comparison to Robert’s most recent death-defying stunt:

Trying a durian in Geylang.

Robert Irwin Eats Durian, Claims It’s Good

On 17 July, Robert posted an Instagram video showing him at the Durian 36 stall on Geylang Road.

Faced with a durian, he called it “the most polarising fruit in the world.”

“Everyone either says it’s great or it’s literally the worst thing they’ve ever eaten.”

“I’m so nervous.” He said, with the provided plastic gloves not helping his worries.

“The smell is…confronting.” He commented, proving to be the most polite person in the world.

 

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A post shared by Robert Irwin (@robertirwinphotography)

With the sliced-open durian in front of him, Robert Irwin tried to build up the confidence to eat it.

He hesitated twice, saying he couldn’t get past the smell. We know, Robert. We know the feeling.

Finally, he took a bite.

“It’s good,” He remarked, immediately followed by coughing.

“It’s good,” Robert repeated, visibly grimacing on camera.

“It’s actually not b-” He began coughing again before finishing the sentence, a pained expression in his eyes. “It’s actually not bad.”

“It’s good, I like it!” Robert claimed, looking more like a hostage reading a script than his usual self.

“Cut!” He motioned to the camera, his face now red as a tomato.

Netizens Note Contrasting Physical Reaction

Comments were quick to note the complete discrepancy between his words and his reactions. One reenacted it with emojis.

Another noted that his eyes told a different story. A very painful one.

A kind commenter suggested Robert Irwin try some sweeter durians instead.

It appeared that Robert Irwin was in Singapore with his sister Bindi and mother Terri on a sightseeing trip.

Instagram photos showed them enjoying Gardens by the Bay and the National Orchid Garden. Of course, they couldn’t miss a trip to the Singapore Zoo either.

 

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A post shared by Terri Irwin (@terriirwincrikey)

Robert was then brave enough to try to wrangle with durians as well, leading to the…interesting food review.

Durians are Polarising Even in Singapore

As he mentions in the video, durians are known for their overpoweringly foul smell. They’re banned on public transport unless you want to use a “chemical weapon” on your fellow passengers.

While durians are not associated with a fine on our famous MRT signboards, noncompliance with signs by itself can result in a fine of up to S$500.

Sigh, in Singapore even no fine results in fine.

We definitely respect Robert trying something from our culture, although he should probably stick with something less scary like giant crocodiles instead.