Crocodile Dundee crocodile Burt dies in Australia

On December 23, 2024By Littum

For security reasons, a fake version of Burt (pictured with Hogan) was used for some of the promotional photos

Shutterstock Paul Hogan with fake crocodile on set of Crocodile Dundee. Only once, picture paid per use. — For security reasons, a fake version of Burt (pictured with Hogan) was used for some of the promotional photos

The crocodile that starred in the 1980s hit film Crocodile Dundee has died in Australia.

Burt, believed to be over 90 years old, appeared alongside Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski in the 1986 film.

News of his death was confirmed by staff at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin, a reptile and aquarium attraction where Burt had lived since 2008.

In a statement posted on Instagramwrote the wildlife centre: “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 at the weekend, estimated to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era.”

Burt, pictured with Hogan on set, had lived at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin since 2008

Shutterstock Paul Hogan with Burt on set. Only once, picture paid per use — Burt, pictured with Hogan on set, had lived at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin since 2008

Crocodile Dundee was a box office hit in 1986

Getty Images Paul Hogan in foreground wearing hat, denim shirt and tan vest. Linda Kozlowski is in the background, wearing a white vest and black shorts. — Crocodile Dundee was a box office hit in 1986

In the film, the character Mick Dundee (Hogan) swaps the Australian outback for the New York jungle after meeting American reporter Sue Charlton (Kozlowski), who eventually falls in love with him.

The hook is famously seen in the scene where Kozlowski’s character is attacked as she kneels beside a stream.

Burt, who was caught in the 1980s in the Northern Territory’s Reynolds River, was described by Crocosaurus Cove as having a “bold” personality.

“Burt was a confirmed bachelor — a stance he made clear during his earlier years on a crocodile farm,” the center’s statement continued.

“His fiery temper earned him the respect of his keepers 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.

Getty Images Paul Hogan with fake dead crocodile while filming Crocodile Dundee. He is wearing a hat and waistcoat.

“While 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.

The statement concluded: “Visitors from all over the world marveled at his imposing size and commanding presence, especially at feeding time.”

It is not unusual for saltwater crocodiles to live over 70 years, especially in captivity.

Burt will be honored with a commemorative plaque at the attraction.

Crocodile Dundee remains the highest-grossing Australian film of all time, taking $47,707,598 (Australian dollars).

It also spawned two sequels, 1988’s Crocodile Dundee II and 2001’s Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles.

Hogan and Kozlowski were married in 1990 but later divorced.

A documentary about the making of the film is expected to be released next year.