A CROCODILE Dundee icon who starred alongside Paul Hogan had died.
Burt, the 110 stone monster saltwater crocodile who graced movie screens, was thought to be over 90 years old.
The animal was an icon in the 1986 blockbuster Australian comedy film.
Burt, who rose to fame after starring in Australia‘s highest grossing film of all time, died in captivity in Darwin.
The 16-foot movie star was kept in Crocosaurus Cove, a crocodile zoo and aquarium in the north of the country.
His death was announced by the zoo, where he had been kept since 2008, on Monday.
Crocosaurus Cove wrote in a Facebook post: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Burt, the iconic Saltwater crocodile and star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee.
“Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend, estimated to be over 90 years old, marking the end of an incredible era.”
The emotional tribute said Burt had been one of the “most recognised crocodiles in the world”.
It added: “Appearing in Crocodile Dundee and helping to shape Australia’s image as a land of rugged natural beauty and awe-inspiring wildlife.”
Crocosaurus Cove revealed the film star was also a legend at his home.
The zoo said: “Known for his independent nature, Burt was a confirmed bachelor—an attitude he made clear during his earlier years at a crocodile farm.
“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.
“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.”
His zoo plans to honour the late croc with a commemorative sign.
Burt had made his mark on animal and film fans as tributes poured in for the late reptile.
Minister for Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby praised the crocodile.
She said: “[Burt was] a true icon of the Territory, obviously featuring in Crocodile Dundee.”
Movie fans shared their heartbreak at this news on the zoo’s Facebook page.
One person said: “Thank you for the best memories ever. Rest easy old fella.”
Other visitors recalled meeting the world-famous croc at the zoo in Darwin.
Another fan wrote: “I had the amazing privilege of getting to feed Burt as part of my VIP tour when I visited in October 2022.
“He was truly such an incredibly beautiful and powerful animal and feeding him was one of the great moments of my time up in Darwin. RIP Burt.”
A third person said: “I’ll miss ya big fella.”
