Movie star 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 rapidly progressed in the previous couple of 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 stay animal demonstrations on discuss exhibits 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 all the time 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 rapidly, we will guarantee you that his nice humorousness continues to shine by means of,” the assertion stated. “And sure, he nonetheless wears his khakis at dwelling.”
His household requested for privateness in mild of COVID-19 restrictions.
“He has spent his life connecting individuals and wildlife as a result of he has all the time believed that having individuals see and expertise animals is vital to participating them in additional impactful conversations,” his household stated. “Although Dad is 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.”
