Disney’s oldest gorilla, Gino, passes away at Animal Kingdom

In a tribute to a gentle giant, Disney’s Animal Kingdom announced the passing of Gino, a beloved 44-year-old western lowland gorilla. 

For nearly three decades, Gino was a cornerstone of the park, touching countless lives with his playful spirit, gentle humor, and unwavering presence as a devoted father and troop leader. 

“Gino leaves behind an incredible legacy — 14 offspring, global contributions to gorilla care and conservation, and the lasting memories of every cast member and guest he inspired,” said Disney, “Gino’s story will live on in the future of his species and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.”

Gino, who would have turned 45 this December, was known for his intelligence and ability to surprise his keepers. In an interview with Rachel Daneault, in the National Geographic series “Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom,” narrated by Josh Gad, she recalled a moment when Gino demonstrated his high intelligence. “We were training one day, and I asked him to give me a behavior, and he started making up his own behaviors,” Daneault said. “That’s actually a sign of higher intelligence. So I was blown away.”