Burt, the reptilian star of the 1980s classic “Crocodile Dundee,” has died aged at least 90.

The crocodile’s death was announced by the Australian reptile park Crocosaurus Cove, where Burt spent his final years.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Burt, the legendary saltwater crocodile and star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee,” the attraction wrote in an Instagram post. “Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend, estimated to be in his 90s, marking the end of an incredible era.”

Crocodile Dundee, starring Paul Hogan as a courageous Australian crocodile hunter who finds himself a fish out of water after a visit to New York, was released in 1986 and quickly became one of Australia’s highest-grossing films. Two sequels followed: “Crocodile Dundee II” and “Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles”.

Coverage of the film’s initial release in August 1986, diversity noted that Paramount Pictures had been hesitant about keeping the film’s title in case audiences thought the comedy was “more about animals than people.” The “crocodile” in the film’s title is actually the nickname of Hogan’s character. In the end, after considering 250 alternative options, Paramount decided to keep the name, but released the film worldwide with quotes “Crocodile” – although it didn’t end up sticking.

Read Crocosaurus Cove’s full statement below:

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Burt, the legendary saltwater crocodile and star of the Australian classic Crocodile Dundee. Burt passed away peacefully over the weekend at an estimated age of over 90, marking the end of an incredible era.

Burt’s life story is one of strength, resilience and a personality as courageous as the Top End itself. Burt was captured in the Reynolds River in the 1980s and went on to become one of the most recognizable crocodiles in the world. He appeared in Crocodile Dundee and shaped Australia’s image as a country of raw natural beauty and impressive wildlife.

In 2008, Burt made his way to Crocosaurus Cove, where he became a passionate and fascinating ambassador for crocodile education. Burt was known for his independence and was a confirmed bachelor – an attitude that was clearly evident in his earlier years on a crocodile farm. His fiery temperament earned him the respect of his handlers 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. Although 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. Visitors from around the world marveled at its impressive size and imposing presence, especially at feeding time.

The Crocosaurus Cove team would like to thank everyone who visited Burt and helped celebrate his remarkable life. As we mourn his loss, we are reminded of the crucial role wildlife plays in our shared history and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

We plan to honor Burt’s legacy with a memorial plaque at the attraction and celebrate his extraordinary life and the stories and interactions he shared during his time at the park.