The legendary saltwater crocodile Burt, known for his role in the iconic 1986 film Crocodile Dundee, has died at the age of 90 in Australia. Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend at Crocosaurus Cove, a reptile and aquarium attraction in Darwin where he had lived since 2008.
In a statement, Crocosaurus Cove described Burt as “a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures”. The centre also talked about Burt’s bold personality. “While his personality could be challenging, it was also what made him so memorable and beloved by those who worked with him and the thousands who visited him over the years.”
Crocodile Dundee starred actors Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski. Burt was featured in a memorable scene where Kozlowski’s character is attacked near a creek.
A giant of cinema has left us. Burt the Croc, the star of Crocodile Dundee (1986) starring Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski has passed away at the age of 90. Burt was nearly 17 ft long and weighed 700kgs. He was also the basis of the giant croc in Rogue (2007). pic.twitter.com/vJy8h4a32b
— The Sting (@TheStingisBack) December 23, 2024
The film remains the highest-grossing Australian movie of all time, taking in $47.7 million (Australian Dollars), and spawned two sequels.
Captured in the 1980s in the Northern Territory’s Reynolds River, Burt lived well beyond the average saltwater crocodile’s lifespan of 70 years. Visitors from around the world admired his impressive size and demeanor, especially during feeding times at the wildlife park.
Crocosaurus Cove announced plans to honor Burt with a commemorative sign, celebrating his extraordinary life and contributions to wildlife conservation and tourism. “As we mourn his loss, we are reminded of the vital role wildlife plays in our shared history and the importance of preserving it for future generations,” the statement read.
A documentary on the making of Crocodile Dundee is expected next year.
(With inputs from BBC, and Sky News)
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