Alligator From Beloved Adam Sandler Comedy Dead At 80

Morris, a 640-pound American alligator that chomped his way into Hollywood fame, has died at the age of 80 plus at the Colorado Gator Farm in southern Colorado. The legendary reptile, who once shared screen time with Adam Sandler and Steve Irwin, passed away last week of apparent old age.

Jay Young, owner of the Colorado Gator Farm, announced Morris’s passing in a heartfelt video on Facebook. Sitting by the pool of Morris’s enclosure, Young gently stroked the gator’s massive head as he paid tribute to the animal he’d cared for over decades.

“He started acting strange a week ago. He wasn't looking at us and wasn't taking food,” said Young in the emotional clip. “I know it’s weird to some people that we get so attached to an alligator. But we love all our animals—just like cats and dogs.”

Morris wasn't just any alligator. He was a true Hollywood heavyweight. His most famous role? A scene-stealing cameo in Happy Gilmore (1996). But his filmography runs deep: Alligator, Alligator II, Interview with the Vampire, Dr. Doolittle 2, Eraser, and Blues Brothers 2000, to name a few. He also popped up on TV in Coach, Night Court, and even The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, where he appeared alongside the late Steve Irwin.

According to Young, Morris worked in film and television from 1975 until 2006, when he “retired” to the sanctuary in Colorado. There, he lived out his final years in relative peace and was a top draw for visitors.

"It's the worst part of what we do, losing animals," Young said. "But this isn't as tragic as some of the things we've experienced in the past. He had a happy time here, and he died of old age, and it's not as tragic as some of the family members we've lost here. But that's part of life. Everything that lives must die."

In true showman fashion, Morris’s story doesn’t end there. The farm shared a video on Instagram to show just how massive he really was and announced that he’ll be preserved through taxidermy, so he can continue to spook children for years to come. “It’s what he would have wanted,” the post read. Just like a legendary Hollywood star, Morris has secured his place in the spotlight and will continue to be showcased as the legend he is.

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