The crocodile that became famous after appearing in the 1986 film ‘Crocodile Dundee’ has died, the Australian reptile and aquarium attraction where he lived announced on social media.
Burt, the iconic saltwater crocodile who appeared alongside Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski in the hit film, is thought to have lived to be more than 90 years old.
Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin said in an Instagram post that Burt died peacefully over the weekend, “marking the end of an incredible era.”
“Burt’s life story is one of strength, resilience and a personality as bold as the Top End itself,” the post continued. “Caught in the Reynolds River in the 1980s, Burt became one of the most recognized crocodiles in the world. He appeared in Crocodile Dundee and helped shape Australia’s image as a land of rugged natural beauty and awe-inspiring wildlife. “
According to the aquarium, Burt came to Crocosarus Cove in 2008 and became “a fierce and fascinating ambassador for crocodile education.”
“Burt was known for his independent nature and was a confirmed bachelor – an attitude he made clear during his early years on a crocodile farm,” they said. “His fiery temperament earned him the respect of both his keepers and visitors, as he embodied the raw and untamed spirit of the saltwater crocodile.”
Paramount via Getty Images
In the film, Hogan’s character Mick Dundee swaps the Australian outback for the concrete jungle of New York after meeting an American reporter, played by Kozlowski. Burt is seen in a scene where Kozlowski’s character is attacked as she kneels next to a creek.
Burt will be honored with a memorial plaque at Crocasourus Cove.
