Iconic Crocodile from Crocodile Dundee Passes Away in Australia

Burt, the crocodile who featured in the successful 1980s film Crocodile Dundee, has died in Australia. Believed to be over 90 years old, Burt appeared alongside Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski in the 1986 movie. His death was verified by personnel at Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin, a reptile and aquarium facility where Burt had resided since 2008. The wildlife center issued a statement on Instagram, declaring: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Burt, the iconic saltwater crocodile and star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee.” The statement added: “Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend, estimated to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era.” Within the movie, the character Mick Dundee, portrayed by Hogan, transitions from the Australian outback to New York City after encountering American reporter Sue Charlton, played by Kozlowski, with whom he ultimately falls in love. The crocodile is notably featured in a sequence where Kozlowski’s character is assaulted while kneeling beside a creek. Burt, captured during the 1980s in the Reynolds River of the Northern Territory, was characterized by Crocosaurus Cove as possessing a “bold” personality. The center’s statement further elaborated: “Burt was a confirmed bachelor – an attitude he made clear during his earlier years at a crocodile farm.” It added: “His fiery temperament earned him the respect of his caretakers and visitors alike, as he embodied the raw and untamed spirit of the saltwater crocodile.” The statement continued: “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. “While his personality could be challenging, it was also what made him so memorable and beloved by those who worked with him and the thousands who visited him over the years. The statement concluded: “Visitors from around the globe marvelled at his impressive size and commanding presence, especially at feeding time.” It is not uncommon for saltwater crocodiles, particularly those in captivity, to exceed 70 years of age. Burt is slated to be honored with a commemorative sign at the facility. Crocodile Dundee holds the record as the highest-grossing Australian film ever, having earned $47,707,598 (Australian dollars). The movie also led to two follow-up films: Crocodile Dundee II in 1988 and Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles in 2001. Hogan and Kozlowski wed in 1990, though they subsequently divorced. A documentary detailing the production of the film is anticipated for release next year. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.