Burt the reptile from ‘Crocodile Dundee’ dead at 90

A beloved star of “Crocodile Dundee” has died.

Burt, the reptile who appeared alongside Paul Hogan in the 1986 film, has died after living for more than 90 years.

The Australian crocodile park Crocosaurus Cove, where Burt lived in his last years, announced the news.

“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 on Instagram Sunday.

Burt the crocodile. Instagram/crocosauruscove

“Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend, estimated to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era,” the statement added.

Burt rose to fame from Peter Faiman’s 1986 film, which starred Hogan, 85, as brave Australian crocodile hunter Michael J. “Crocodile” Dundee.

The film became Australia’s highest-grossing film at the time of its release. It spawned two sequels, 1988’s “Crocodile Dundee II” and 2001’s “Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles.”

Linda Kozlowski, Paul Hogan in “Crocodile Dundee.” ©Paramount/Courtesy Everett Collection

Hogan reprized his role for both sequels. However, neither film achieved the same success as the first film.

“Burt’s life story is one of strength, resilience and a personality as bold as the Top End itself,” said Crocosaurus Cove, reflecting on the late crocodile’s story.

“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 to shape Australia’s image as a land of rugged natural beauty and awe-inspiring wildlife,” it continued the statement.

Burt the crocodile. Instagram/crocosauruscove

The zoo added that Burt arrived there in 2008 and “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,” the park explained. “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,” Crocosaurus Cove said. “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 impressive size and commanding presence, especially at feeding time.”

Paul Hogan in “Crocodile Dundee”. ©Paramount/Courtesy Everett Collection

The attraction thanked visitors who came to see Burt over the years, saying the beloved crocodile’s death reminded them “of the vital 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,” the statement concluded.