Perhaps.
But I have seen enough of his shows to know that he pushed the buttons too much for dangerous shots.
The shot with him holding his kid while feeding the croc for instance.
Have you worked with large crocodilians? I have.
For a short distance on land they can outrun a man - that meant he was putting his kid in very serious danger. They are also incredibly intelligent for reptiles and extremely unpredictable.
I liked the guy and regret his death. It was unfortunate. His shows entertained many and got many a kid interested in reptiles and brought a lot of joy into many otherwise dull lives.
I hope he's in a happier place.
I know some young guys just like Steve. They do not push the boundaries for the camera. They do it for the thrill of getting up close and personal with the animals. They do take risks but the risks are tempered by their experience and high alert awareness. These guys are never casual or wreckless. Risk takers, yes. But no more so than a sky diver, mountain climber or any other adventurer with high skills.
Steve built a reputation on the perception that he took unnecessary risks. The showmanship was his ability to make it look more dangerous than it was. He was always hyping the danger and had the genius to make it look just as breath taking.
I have worked with alligators, no crocs. Also worked with vipers in the wild and captivity. I prefer wild as safer. Captive handling creates too much comfort level.
My real passion is fish. They are far more dangerous than land animals, even in a home aquarium.