One of the stars of Crocodile Dundee, who appeared alongside Paul Hogan in the 1986 blockbuster, has died at the age of 90, according to the reptile’s caretakers.
Burt, a five-meter-long, 700 kg saltwater crocodile, died in captivity at Crocosaurus Cove, a herpetarium and aquarium in Darwin, Australia, where he had been since 2008.
In a Facebook post, the zoo said, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Burt, the iconic saltwater crocodile and star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee.”
“Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend, estimated to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era.”
The average saltwater crocodile lives about 70 years, but some can live up to 100 years. The species is the world’s largest reptile, capable of eating any animal that gets too close.
Burt became one of the world’s most famous reptiles thanks to the worldwide success of Peter Faiman’s film Crocodile Dundee, which is still the highest-grossing Australian film of all time.
Sue Charlton (Linda Kozlowski), an American reporter, travels to the Australian outback to meet the infamous eccentric poacher Mick “Crocodile” Dundee (Hogan).
He saves her from a crocodile attack, and in exchange, she invites him back to New York City, where he encounters modern life’s complexities for the first time.
In honor of the titular crocodile, the zoo reflected on his inspiring story and rise to fame, beginning with his capture in the early 1980s before his big screen debut.
“Burt’s life story is one of strength, resilience, and a personality as bold as the Top End itself,” they informed us.
“Captured in the 1980s in the Reynolds River, Burt became one of the most recognized crocodiles in the world, appearing in Crocodile Dundee and helping to shape Australia’s image as a land of rugged natural beauty and awe-inspiring wildlife.”
The zoo stated that Burt was a “confirmed bachelor” who was fiercely independent, as evidenced by his lack of enthusiasm for meeting a mate on the crocodile farm.
The announcement continued: “In 2008, Burt made his way to Crocosaurus Cove, where he became a fierce and fascinating ambassador for crocodile education.”
“Known for his independence, Burt was a confirmed bachelor, which he demonstrated during his early years on a crocodile farm.
“His fiery temperament earned him the respect of his caretakers and visitors alike, as he embodied the raw and untamed spirit of the saltwater crocodile.”