Melbourne, Feb 16: It looks like things have taken a bitter turn in the Irwin empire since the death of wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin, for reports have claimed that the relations between Terri Irwin, Steve’s wife, and her father-in-law, Bob Irwin, have broken down.

The buzz, which originated from within Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast, also claims that Bob had left the family ‘compound’ at the zoo and was upset with the direction the Irwin empire was headed.

However, those closest to the Irwins have denied the reports.

Wes Mannion, who manages Australia Zoo, grew up with the late Steve Irwin and is described on the Australia Zoo website as a surrogate brother, was reluctant to talk to about the rumours.

Mannion said he had "heard just about every rumour you could imagine", adding that "Bob is a top guy" and that the family was still grieving the loss of Steve.

"Bob would not be inclined to talk about family matters," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted him, as saying.

He also added that Bob and Terri are very close to each other. (ANI)