Jack Hanna is a name known by many — especially children who grew up in the '80s and '90s. When it came to animal experts, many called on Jack to be part of their late-night television shows and specials. Jack had a few series himself and created quite a career over the years.
Unfortunately, his family shared that Jack isn't doing so well. In December, he was reportedly diagnosed with dementia, and his health has been rapidly deteriorating throughout the last few months.
His loving family, including daughters Kathaleen Hanna, Julie Hanna, and Suzanne Hanna, posted an update on Jack's Twitter account. The post was meant to update fans and showcase that his career has officially come to an end while he makes peace with his health struggle.
"Today, we reach out to share some personal Hanna Family news. Doctors have diagnosed our dad, Jack Hanna, with dementia, now believed to be Alzheimer's disease. His condition has progressed much faster in the last few months than any of us could have anticipated. Sadly, Dad is no longer able to participate in public life as he used to, where people all over the world watched, learned and laughed alongside him," they wrote.
"A passion for wildlife conservation and education has been at the core of who our dad is and everything he has accomplished with the help of so many," the statement continued. "He has spent his life connecting people and wildlife because he has always believed that having people see and experience animals is key to engaging them in more impactful conservation efforts. He's always said, 'You have to touch the heart to teach the mind.'"
"Even though Dad is no longer able to travel and work in the same way, we know that his infectious enthusiasm has touched many hearts and will continue to be his legacy," they said. And they're correct. While Steve Irwin was always tied to his love of animals, Jack was very much the same way. He was big on educating the nation, and he did a great job.
Steve Irwin involved his children, Bindi and Robert, in his work, and Jack was the same way. "The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has been a major part of our lives since we moved to Central Ohio as young girls in 1978," his daughters said. "From day one, Dad advocated for improved wildlife habitats and focused on connecting the community with animals. After he left his active management role as Executive Director in 1992, he continued to be a spokesperson for the zoo until his retirement last year."
"Dad engaged with millions of households through his media appearances and weekly television programs – including Animal Adventures, Into the Wild and Wild Countdown. This allowed him to bring an unparalleled level of awareness to the importance of global conservation given the unrelenting pressures on the natural environment. To say that we are abundantly proud to be his daughters is an understatement," they continued.
And again, much like Steve Irwin, Jack had a zoo of choice. "Dad loves the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds and has great appreciation for the hundreds of employees and volunteers, who work extremely hard each day to care for the animals and ensure an incredible experience for the families who visit," the letter stated. "We share his dedication to the Central Ohio community and will continue to support the Columbus Zoo and conservation efforts around the world."
Looking back at Jack's line of work, he was always an entertainer. Typically, he brought poisonous or dangerous animals to late-night sets and calmly told the host about the damage the animal could do. It was good for a bit, but it was also good for educational purposes. Jack's fearlessness around these wild animals was always wonderful to witness.
Yet aside from the animals, he also has a family who loves and supports him — especially his wife. "Our mom – Suzi – has been by his side for 53 years in every corner of the world. She continues to be his rock (and ours, too). We have great respect and admiration for Mom as we move through not only this difficult time with Dad, but also Julie’s continued life-long challenges from her childhood leukemia, as she is currently recovering from major surgery," they said.
Despite such tragic news, it seems as if Jack is still staying true to himself throughout all of it. "While Dad's health has deteriorated quickly, we can assure you that his great sense of humor continues to shine through," his daughters wrote. "And yes – he still wears his khakis at home."
Announcing the news must have been difficult. While Alzheimer's and dementia are both upsetting diagnoses to get, it seems as if the family is fully aware that their time with their father will soon come to an end. That's likely why they crafted this statement — so that when the time comes, it's not as big of a surprise to the world, especially those who've followed Jack's adventures for decades.
However, they know their father was beloved by so many. And for someone who has fans literally all over the world, it can be impossible for everyone to fully pay their respects to such a legend. The state of the world, and the precautions being taken, make it even harder for Jack to have the final days he likely desires. Fans know that Jack is quite personable.
"We are asking for privacy, which is ironic given Dad's love of interacting with people," they admitted. "We are grateful that the many hearts he's touched over the years are with him during this journey, which gives us strength." Even based on their writing, it's obvious how proud they are of their dad. Without a doubt, "Jungle" Jack Hanna had his share of adventures throughout his life.
With the information revealed to the public, now Jack can be safely be surrounded by people he loves. He could live on for plenty of years, but the way the statement was worded makes it seem as if his illness is progressing at a very fast pace. That said, Jack's many adventures are still available for new audiences. His kid-friendly appearances may even inspire younger children to take on similar jobs as Jack.
No matter what happens, Jack Hanna is a gem and holds a special place in many people's hearts. While this news is devastating, it's good to know that Jack's in a safe place surrounded by so much love. And surely the animals also appreciate the fact that he was always so kind and gentle around them, despite often being the best part of Jack's punchlines.
