Crocodile Dundee croc Burt dies in Australia
For safety precautions, a replica of Burt (seen here with Hogan) was utilized in certain promotional photos.
The crocodile that featured in the popular 1980s movie Crocodile Dundee has passed away in Australia.
Burt, believed to be in his 90s, starred with Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski in the film released in 1986.
The staff at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin, a reptile and aquarium facility where Burt had resided since 2008, announced the confirmation of his passing.
In a message shared on Instagram, the wildlife center expressed their sorrow by saying: "We are heartbroken to share that Burt, the legendary saltwater crocodile and beloved star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee, has passed away."
Burt peacefully passed away over the weekend at an estimated age of over 90, bringing an extraordinary chapter to a close.
Burt, seen alongside Hogan during filming, had been residing at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin since 2008.
Photo credit: Getty Images
Crocodile Dundee was a massive success at the box office when it released in 1986.
In the movie, Mick Dundee (played by Hogan) leaves the Australian wilderness behind and heads to the urban jungle of New York after crossing paths with American journalist Sue Charlton (portrayed by Kozlowski), who ultimately develops feelings for him.
The crocodile is well-known for appearing in the moment when Kozlowski's character is assaulted while she is kneeling by a stream.
Burt, caught in the 1980s near the Reynolds River in the Northern Territory, was characterized by Crocasourus Cove as having a "daring" character.
"Burt was known for being a lifelong bachelor, a fact he made evident during his earlier days working at a crocodile farm," the center's statement added.
His passionate nature garnered admiration from both his caretakers and those who came to see him, as he represented the wild and unrestrained essence of the saltwater crocodile.
Burt was truly unique. He wasn’t simply a crocodile; he embodied the strength and grandeur of these amazing animals, serving as a testament to their natural prowess.
Photo credit: Getty Images
Although his personality could sometimes be difficult, it was also what made him unforgettable and cherished by his colleagues and the countless visitors he had throughout the years.
The statement wrapped up by saying, "People from all over the world were amazed by his enormous size and powerful presence, particularly during feeding time."
Saltwater crocodiles often surpass the age of 70, particularly when they are kept in captivity.
Burt will be recognized with a memorial plaque at the site.
Crocodile Dundee holds the record as the top-grossing Australian movie ever, earning $47,707,598 AUD.
It also led to the creation of two follow-up films: Crocodile Dundee II, released in 1988, and Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles, which came out in 2001.
Hogan and Kozlowski tied the knot in 1990, but eventually they ended their marriage.
A behind-the-scenes documentary about the film's production is set to come out next year.
