Russell Crowe Devastated At Steve Irwin's Death

Australian actor Russell Crowe has flown back to his home country to host a tribute to the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin.

Irwin was killed earlier this month after being struck through the heart by a stingray?s barb; he is survived by his wife Terri, daughter Bindi and son Bob.

Crowe has been given three days leave from the set of his current film ?American Gangster? to host the tribute.

On hearing of Irwin?s death Crowe described him as "the Australian we all aspire to be".

"He was and remains the ultimate wildlife warrior. He touched my heart, I believed in him, I'll miss him."

A public memorial service will be held at the Crocoseum at the Australia Zoo next Wednesday.