Former Australian politician Amanda Vanstone is facing criticism for lashing out at “Dancing with the stars” winner Bindi Irwin.

Talking on “The Verdict,” which aired on Wednesday on Network Nine, the former senator said, losing her father does not make Bindi special. She interrupted the host Karl Stefanovic, who was praising Bindi for winning the U.S. version of “Dancing with the Stars,” saying “Give me a break”.

“She’s not the only kid whose father has died. My father died when I was young; it happens to lots of kids. It doesn’t make her special,” she added, as quoted by Australian Women's Weekly.

Amanda exploded after Karl said he wanted to end things on a positive note and applauded Bindi for winning “Dancing with the Stars.” “She’s just a really special person; she’s made me cry a couple of times, she’s made me laugh,” Karl said

Amanda, however, who seemed to have had enough of all the attention Bindi has been getting, rudely interrupted Karl and asked nastily, “How many years ago did her father die?”

The comment immediately was criticised by fellow panelist and former Labor leader Mark Latham who called it “mean and nasty,” adding that it was something even he wouldn’t say.

Post Amanda’s shocking comment, Twitter went abuzz with Bindi’s supporters expressing shock at Amanda’s insensitivity. A commenter caller her father an "Australian icon," while another poster called Bindi a "wonderful lady."

Bindi Irwin is the daughter of late Steve Irwin, of the “Crocodile Hunter” fame. Steve was killed by a Sting ray when Bindi was eight years old. She lives with her mother Terri Irwin and brother Robert.

In August 2015, Irwin was announced as a competitor on “Dancing with the Stars” Season 21, where she paired up with five-time champion Derek Hough. The duo became the first competitors to get eight perfect scores on the show. On Nov. 24, Bindi and Derek were declared the winners of this season.

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