Burt, the renowned crocodile who gained fame through his cameo in the movie “Crocodile Dundee,” has passed away. The Crocosaurus Cove reptile aquarium in Darwin, Australia, announced that Burt died over the weekend at the impressive age of at least 90 years old.
As a remarkable saltwater crocodile measuring over 5 meters (16 feet) long, Burt was captured in the Reynolds River during the 1980s. He quickly became one of the most famous crocodiles worldwide, captivating visitors with his fiery temperament and commanding presence.
Throughout his life, Burt was known for his independent spirit and remained a confirmed bachelor, a characteristic that became apparent during his earlier years at a crocodile farm. According to Crocosaurus Cove’s social media posts, “He wasn’t just a crocodile; he was a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures.” His challenging personality made him both memorable and beloved by those who cared for him and the thousands who visited him over the years.
The Australian aquarium, where Burt lived since 2008, features a unique attraction called the “Cage of Death,” claiming to be the nation’s only crocodile dive. In memory of Burt, the aquarium has announced plans to create a commemorative sign honoring his extraordinary life and the countless interactions and stories he shared during his time at the park.
The iconic movie “Crocodile Dundee,” released in 1986, stars Paul Hogan as the adventurous crocodile hunter Mick Dundee. The film includes a scene where American Sue Charlton, played by Linda Kozlowski, is attacked by a crocodile while filling her canteen at a watering hole, only to be saved by Dundee. Burt is famously shown lunging out of the water, although the crocodile that appears more prominently during the rescue is actually identified by the Internet Movie Database as an American alligator, which has a distinctively blunter snout.