The ‘Crocodile Dundee’ star turned 90

Burt, the reptilian star of the 1980s classic “Crocodile Dundee”, has died aged at least 90.

The croc’s death was announced by the Australian reptile park Crocosaurus Cove, where Burt lived out his final years.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Burt, the iconic saltwater crocodile and star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee,” the attraction wrote in an Instagram post. “Burt passed away peacefully at the weekend, estimated to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era.”

Starring Paul Hogan as a daring Australian crocodile hunter who feels like a fish out of water after visiting New York, “Crocodile Dundee” was released in 1986 and quickly became one of Australia’s highest-grossing films. Two sequels followed: “Crocodile Dundee II” and “Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles.”

Reporting on the film’s original release in August 1986, Black noted that Paramount Pictures had failed to retain the film’s title if audiences thought the comedy film was “about animals rather than people.” The “crocodile” in the film’s title is actually Hogan’s character’s nickname. In the end, after going through 250 alternative options, Paramount decided to keep the name, but released the film in quotation marks around the world “Crocodile” – although it ultimately did not stick.

Read the full statement from Crocosaurus Cove below:

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 died peacefully at the weekend, estimated to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era.

Burt’s life story is one of strength, resilience and a personality as brave as the Top End itself. Caught in the 1980s in the Reynolds River, Burt became one of the most recognized crocodiles in the world, appearing in Crocodile Dundee and helping shape Australia’s image as a land of rugged natural beauty and awe-inspiring wildlife.

In 2008 Burt made his way to Crocosaurus Cove where he became a fierce and fascinating ambassador for crocodile education. Known for his independent nature, Burt was a confirmed bachelor – an attitude he made clear during his earlier years on a crocodile farm. His fiery temper earned him the respect of his caretakers and visitors alike as he embodied the raw and untamed spirit of the saltwater crocodile.

Burt was truly one of a kind. He was not just a crocodile; he was a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures. Although his personality could be challenging, it was also what made him so memorable and loved by those who worked with him and the thousands who visited him over the years. Visitors from all over the world marveled at his imposing size and commanding presence, especially at feeding time.

The team at Crocosaurus Cove would like to thank everyone who visited Burt and helped celebrate his remarkable life. As we mourn his loss, we are reminded of the important role wildlife plays in our shared history and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

We plan to honor Burt’s legacy with a memorial at the attraction that celebrates his extraordinary life and the stories and interactions he shared throughout his time at the park.