The animal actors world is mourning the loss of an iconic industry veteran: Morris, the 640-pound alligator best known for his hand-chomping role in Happy Gilmore alongside Adam Sandler, has officially retired from life at the ripe old age of 80 (possibly a few years older)
He passed away peacefully from old age last week, surrounded by friends and family at the Colorado Gator Farm, his long-time retirement home.
Morris wasn’t just a one-hit wonder who terrified Chubbs Peterson (RIP Carl Weathers), this guy had a resume as long as he was (10 feet, 11 inches if you’re curious).
From 1975 to 2006, he graced sets for films like Interview with a Vampire, Dr. Doolittle 2, and even the cult classic Alligator. Let’s not forget TV spots on Coach and Night Court, proving his versatile reptilian range.
Discovered as an illegal backyard pet (we’ll assume Florida) Morris was thankfully handed over to folks who saw his star potential. After a glittering career, he spent nearly two decades at the Colorado Gator Farm, where owner Jay Young tearfully admitted how attached they’d all become.
The farm even fittingly plans to have Morris taxidermied, ensuring his long grin can “continue to scare children for years to come,” according to Young.
Adam Sandler also posted a tribute to his crocodilian costar on Instagram:
Also last December, classic crocodilian movie fans had to say goodbye to Burt, the 90-year-old crocodile best known for his role in Crocodile Dundee.
