Animals

In 1986, Burt, a saltwater crocodile, became one of the most famous animals in the world because of his role in the classic film Crocodile Dundee. Sadly, the Crocosaurus Cove, the wildlife park in Darwin, Australia, where Burt spent his later years, announced his passing on social media. They revealed the crocodile passed away peacefully at an age estimated to be about 90. Burt first captured the world’s attention in Crocodile Dundee, a movie that became a global hit. The film was about the city life of Mick "Crocodile" Dundee, played by Paul Hogan, a rugged bushman who is brought to the city by a visiting American journalist. Burt’s role was important to one of the movie’s most memorable scenes. He was featured in the scene where Paul Hogan demonstrates his bushman skills by fighting off a massive crocodile. Though Burt’s role in the film was brief, its huge size and the scene’s suspenseful nature left a lasting impression on fans and the media. ‘Crocodile Dundee,’ starring none other than Burt alongside Paul Hogan, was one of Australia’s highest-grossing movies of all time CROCODILE DUNDEE, Paul Hogan, 1986, © Paramount/courtesy Everett Collection After his Hollywood debut, Burt retired from the silver screen and became a permanent resident of wildlife parks in Darwin, even though he was used as the model for visual effects killer-croc film Rogue sometimes in 2007. He first lived at Crocodylus Park and later at Crocosaurus Cove, where he was the main attraction. CROCODILE DUNDEE II, Paul Hogan, 1988 / Everett Collection Visitors from around the world came around to see the famous crocodile who had shared the screen with Paul Hogan. At Crocosaurus Cove, Burt lived in a large enclosure, where he was treated like royalty. Despite his intimidating and huge size, staff described him as a relatively calm crocodile, earning him the nickname “Gentleman Burt.” He lived alongside other crocodiles, though his fame and size ensured he always stood out. CROCODILE DUNDEE II, Paul Hogan, 1988, ©Paramount Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection Burt's influence went far beyond his role on screen; it also contributed to the world’s perception of Australia. Crocodile Dundee became the highest-grossing Australian film of all time and introduced international audiences to the country’s landscapes, wildlife, and humor. As the film’s reptilian star, Burt and his presence in the movie and later in captivity allowed people to view crocodiles not just as predators but as an important part of Australia’s ecosystem. The fascination surrounding Burt also boosted tourism in the Northern Territory. Fans of Crocodile Dundee visited Darwin to see the famous crocodile up close, and it contributed to the region’s economy. Burt was a “force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures.” CROCODILE DUNDEE, Paul Hogan, 1986, © Paramount/courtesy Everett Collection Wildlife experts were not left out, they also used Burt’s fame to educate visitors about the importance of conserving crocodiles and their habitats. This was especially important in Australia, where saltwater crocodiles were once hunted to near extinction for their skins. Burt’s passing has been a painful moment for fans of Crocodile Dundee and wildlife lovers alike. Crocosaurus Cove announced his death with a tribute to his remarkable life, calling him “as bold as the Top End.” They also talked about his fiery temperament that “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 wasn’t just a crocodile; he was a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures.” Burt’s story is one of survival, and impact. From his role in Crocodile Dundee to his years as a resident of Darwin’s wildlife parks, Burt’s life touched millions in his own way. The park has announced that Burt’s legacy will be honoured with a commemorative sign at the park to celebrate his life and the stories and interactions he shared throughout his time at the park. CROCODILE DUNDEE, Paul Hogan, 1986 / Everett Collection