Gino The Gorilla From Disney’s Animal Kingdom Has Passed Away At Age 44

I have some sad news for everyone today. Gino, a Western lowland gorilla, has passed away at age 44.

Gino was at Disney’s Animal Kingdom when it opened in 1998. He was the oldest gorilla at the park and would have turned 45 this December.

Joe Rhode, posted on Instagram, saying, 

“Gino the gorilla has passed away. He was the silverback leader of the gorillas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom for a generation. Gino was a true alpha male. He was powerful, gentle, humorous, kind, a patient partner to his minders, a great father, and a great model for the young males in his life. I’m sure today and in some following days we will see portraits of him, close up on his thoughtful strong features. But I prefer to remember him like this, not huge and powerful, but wandering peacefully beneath the trees, a creature in the midst of his kingdom. He will be missed.”

Disney also posted, saying, 

“We are heartbroken to share the passing of Gino, our beloved 44-year-old western lowland gorilla. For nearly 30 years, Gino touched countless lives at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with his playful spirit, gentle humor, and steady presence as a devoted father and troop leader.
Gino leaves behind an incredible legacy – 14 offspring, global contributions to gorilla care and conservation, and the lasting memories of every cast member and guest he inspired.
Though he would have turned 45 this December, Gino’s story will live on in the future of his species and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Thank you, Gino. You will always be part of our family.”

This news makes me so sad.

I feel so bad for the cast members who worked with Gino over the years. Sending love and condolences to his human and gorilla family.

What do you think? Comment and let us know!