Burt, the reptilian star of the hit 1986 comedy Crocodile Dundee, has died.
The saltwater crocodile was estimated to be at least ninety years old, at the upper age range for members of his species. Burt's death was announced on Instagram by Crocosaurus Cove, the reptile park he'd called home since 2008.
Burt was captured in the early 1980s in the Reynolds River in Australia; he was named after actor Burt Reynolds. The saltwater crocodile is the world's largest living reptile, and Burt was a particularly large specimen, over sixteen feet long from nose to tail and weighing over 1500 pounds.
He was found at a crocodile farm by the makers of Crocodile Dundee, and was cast for a key scene where Paul Hogan's titular bushman rescues American journalist Sue Charlton (Linda Kozlowski) from crocodile ambush, sparking their romantic connection. Burt was later housed at Crocosaurus Cove, where he became a favorite of park staff and visitors.
With his ferocious temperament, Burt was dubbed as a "confirmed bachelor" and leaves no survivors. His presence helped educate the public about crocodiles, even with his “fiery temperament” gaining him respect. Crocosaurus Cove described him as “fierce and fascinating.”
The movie Crocodile Dundee stars Kozlowski as Sue Charlton, who travels to Australia to interview Mick "Crocodile" Dundee (Paul Hogan). Their fish-out-of-water story became immensely popular, grossing over $300 million on an $8.8 million budget, spurring excitement for Australia’s wildlife.
An additional fun fact about Burt is he was also used as the special effects model for the 2007 film Rogue, about Sweetheart, another saltwater crocodile from Australia. His popularity didn't stop there; he even "predicted" the 2018 World Cup final by choosing to bite down on a chicken wing attached to the French flag.
Crocosaurus Cove staff confirmed Burt passed away peacefully, stating, “the end of an incredible era.” A Facebook post from the park mourned his death, acknowledging him not just as just another crocodile but as “a force of nature” who was “truly one of a kind.”
Marie-Clare Boothby, Minister for Parks and Wildlife, remarked, “[Burt was] a true icon of the Territory,” acknowledging his tremendous impact on local culture. Fans and staff at Crocosaurus Cove, where Burt had grown to be beloved, expressed their gratitude saying, “the team... would like to thank everyone who visited Burt and helped celebrate his remarkable life.”
To honor Burt's legacy, Crocosaurus Cove will be placing a commemorative sign at the attraction. This nudge toward remembrance reinforces the importance of all wildlife and the role they play within our cultural footprint.
Continuing to inspire awe and appreciation, Burt's life reflected the raw and untamed spirit of the Australian saltwater crocodile, and his memory will forever remain intertwined with the land of rugged beauty.
