Most people who were kids in the 1980s and 1990s remember Jack Hanna with fondness. From his early days as a guest on late-night shows and specials to his later forays into hosting, the animal expert was a constant presence on television.
The guy who educated us so much about the flora and fauna with which we share this world is, alas, afflicted with dementia, according to his family. His health has been swiftly declining since he was allegedly diagnosed with the cancer in December.
For the last 40 years, TV's Wildlife Advocate and @ColumbusZoo Director Emeritus @JungleJackHanna has traveled the world advocating for wildlife preservation and bringing conservation stories into our homes.
This #EarthDay2020 is your time to do your part. Will you #EARTHRISE? pic.twitter.com/zF3TeC2I15
— EARTHDAY.ORG (@EarthDay) March 14, 2020
Jack’s daughters—Katheleen, Julie, and Suzanne Hanna—and other family members updated his Twitter followers on his health status.
According to the post:
“We wanted to let you know about some exciting, private Hanna family news today. Dementia, now thought to be Alzheimer’s disease, has been identified in our dad, Jack Hanna, by doctors. We were all surprised by how quickly his condition has worsened in the past few months. People from all over the globe used to watch, learn, and laugh with Dad when he was able to be more publicly active, but now he can’t.
With the support of many, our dad has achieved great things in the realms of wildlife conservation and education, two causes close to his heart.
Because he has always thought that the best approach to get people involved in conservation is to let them see and experience animals, he has dedicated his life to bridging the gap between humans and nature. ‘You have to touch the heart to teach the mind.’ That’s whatever he’s stated.
A letter from the Hanna Family pic.twitter.com/ewuNYa0ReG
— Jack Hanna (@JungleJackHanna) April 7, 2021
“Although Dad is unable to work or travel as much as he once could, we are certain that his legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched with his contagious enthusiasm.”
Indeed, many will remember Jack for his public education efforts. Similar to Steve Irwin, he became somewhat of a symbol for the people spearheading the movement to increase public knowledge and appreciation of animals.
We don’t know the specifics of Jack’s illness, but his family’s open letter makes it sound like dementia is taking a physical toll. To Jack Hanna and his loved ones, you have our deepest sympathies. Thank you, Jack, for the countless memories!