Burt, the iconic saltwater crocodile whose appearance in the 1986 film Crocodile Dundee became a symbol of Australia’s wild spirit, has passed away at the age of over 90. Burt died peacefully over the weekend at Darwin’s Crocosaurus Cove, where he had been a star attraction since 2008.
His passing marks the end of an extraordinary life that bridged Hollywood fame and Australia’s rugged natural beauty. Captured in the Reynolds River during the 1980s, Burt was already a magnificent specimen when chosen to feature in Crocodile Dundee. The film’s international success made him a global icon, establishing him as one of the most recognizable crocodiles and a lasting symbol of Australia’s untamed frontier.
In the years following his cinematic debut, Burt transitioned from Hollywood star to a key figure in wildlife conservation. At Crocosaurus Cove, he captivated visitors from around the world, serving as an ambassador for crocodile education and awareness with his immense size and commanding presence.
“Burt was truly unique,” Crocosaurus Cove Darwin shared in a statement. “He wasn’t just a crocodile; he was a symbol of the awe-inspiring power and majesty of these remarkable creatures. While his personality could be demanding, it was precisely this trait that made him unforgettable and cherished by those who worked with him and the thousands who came to see him over the years. Visitors from all over the world were captivated by his immense size and commanding presence, particularly during feeding time.”
In Crocodile Dundee (1986), Burt the crocodile played a pivotal role in one of the film’s most memorable scenes. He was the massive saltwater crocodile that lunged at Sue Charlton (Linda Kozlowski) as she filled a canteen by the water’s edge. This intense moment set the stage for the film’s hero, Mick Dundee (Paul Hogan), to demonstrate his bushman skills by saving her, solidifying his image as a rugged and fearless adventurer. Though brief, Burt’s appearance added an element of danger and authenticity to the story, perfectly capturing the wild and untamed spirit of the Australian Outback celebrated in the film.