Oldest gorilla at Disney’s Animal Kingdom dies at 44

Gino the gorilla, an Animal Kingdom star, was at the park's opening in 1998.

Oldest gorilla at Disney’s Animal Kingdom dies at 44
Walt Disney World
ByYi-Jin Yu via GMA logo
September 17, 2025, 10:59 AM

The oldest gorilla living at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park has died at the age of 44.

Disney confirmed Gino the gorilla’s death in a Facebook post Wednesday morning.

“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,” Disney said.

PHOTO: Despite his status as the silverback, Gino was often a goofball and engaged with the people and animals around him.
Despite his status as the silverback, Gino was often a goofball and engaged with the people and animals around him. He loved to be the center of attention and was known to make eye contact with Park guests and interact with children through the viewing panel of his habitat.
Walt Disney World

Gino, a western lowland gorilla, had seen a lot in his life, having been a part of Animal Kingdom’s opening day 27 years ago in 1998.

Gino was born in 1980 and had 14 children. The gorilla would have turned 45 years old in December.

PHOTO: Gino, a cherished Western lowland gorilla and one of the original animal residents of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, has passed away at the age of 44.
Gino, a cherished Western lowland gorilla and one of the original animal residents of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, has passed away at the age of 44. Known for his calm demeanor, strong leadership, and contributions to gorilla conservation, Gino was a guest favorite and an iconic figure at the park for almost three decades.
Walt Disney World

When Gino turned 44, Animal Kingdom staff celebrated him with a 1980s-themed birthday party, including cassette tapes and records. In a Facebook post at the time, Disney called him a “symbol of the park's enduring efforts to save critically endangered species.”

“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,” said Disney, adding, “Gino's story will live on in the future of his species and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.”

PHOTO: Despite his status as the silverback, Gino was often a goofball and engaged with the people and animals around him.
Despite his status as the silverback, Gino was often a goofball and engaged with the people and animals around him. He loved to be the center of attention and was known to make eye contact with Park guests and interact with children through the viewing panel of his habitat.
Walt Disney World

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