Yes, it is big. Practically everyone in the US knows the name Steve Erwin. But as shocking as his death is, his death doesn't come as a huge surprise. For years people have watched him grab the most dangerous animals in the world and it was only a matter of time before the animal got the best of him. RIP Steve.
I agree. The guy had incredible courage (and was able to get by the "yuck factor" of picking up snakes, etc.) but there is an old saying, "If you mess with the bull, you better expect the horns." The odd thing is that the stingray isn't particularly malevolent or anti-social like some of the critters he would handle. He'll be missed, but it was a matter of time in his line of work.