COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Celeb zookeeper and animal TV present host Jack Hanna has been recognized with dementia and can retire from public life, his household stated.
In a information launch Wednesday, his household added that it’s believed he now has Alzheimer’s illness that has shortly progressed in the previous few months.
The 74-year-old Hanna was director of the Columbus Zoo from 1978 to 1992 and nonetheless serves as its director emeritus.
“Dad advocated for improved wildlife habitats and centered on connecting the neighborhood with animals,” the assertion signed by his three daughters stated. Hanna continued to be a spokesperson for the Ohio zoo till he retired in 2020.
Hanna can also be well-known for his dwell animal demonstrations on speak reveals hosted by Johnny Carson, David Letterman and James Corden, growing the profile of the Columbus Zoo and resulting in large attendance will increase through the years.
Hanna, who at all times wore khakis on each tv look and in pictures, hosted the favored syndicated TV present “Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures” from 1993 to 2008. He additionally hosted “Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild,” which began in 2007, and “Jack Hanna’s Wild Countdown” till final 12 months.
“Whereas Dad’s well being has deteriorated shortly, we will guarantee you that his nice humorousness continues to shine via,” the assertion stated. “And sure, he nonetheless wears his khakis at dwelling.”
His household requested for privateness in gentle of COVID-19 restrictions.
“He has spent his life connecting individuals and wildlife as a result of he has at all times believed that having individuals see and expertise animals is essential to participating them in additional impactful conversations,” his household stated. “Though Dad is now not in a position to journey and work in the identical method, we all know that his infectious enthusiasm has touched many hearts and can proceed to be his legacy.”
