Bridges becomes "mentor" to Irwin

Beau Bridges has become a "mentor" to child star Bindi Irwin, according to her mother Terri.

12-year-old Bindi, whose famous conservationist father Steve died in 2006, met the Hollywood actor on the set of Free Willy: Escape From Pirate's Cove where they reportedly bonded over their shared love of wildlife.

Woman's Day magazine quotes Terri as saying: "Beau is just wonderful and has become such a great mentor to Bindi and such a great friend."

Bridges also said: "My first impression of Terri was as a mum - the mum of the leading actress of our movie. Bindi had a big responsibility. Terri was right there every step of the way making sure that the workplace was a safe one and a happy one so that Bin could do the best job possible."