Morris the alligator from “Happy Gilmore,” Hollywood’s most famous reptile star, died at 80, capping an extraordinary career that dominated American entertainment for many years. After enjoying retirement at the Colorado Gator Farm since 2006, the 11-foot, 640-pound former movie star passed away quietly there. His passing symbolizes the passing of a cherished animal and the decline of classic Hollywood ideals, where authentic animals—rather than computer-generated imagery—brought authenticity to American filmmaking.
From Backyard Discovery to Hollywood Fame
Morris was discovered as an illegal pet in a Los Angeles backyard in 1975, marking the beginning of his journey into show business. His natural charisma and trainability made him a sought-after talent in Hollywood, where he worked alongside some of the industry’s biggest stars in an era before computer-generated effects dominated the industry.
Morris the alligator, known for his role in "Happy Gilmore," died at the Colorado Gator Farm in the San Luis Valley earlier this week, according to the owner of the exotic animal refuge. https://t.co/eoAkHHvia9
— Denver7 News (@DenverChannel) May 15, 2025
His most memorable role came in the 1996 Adam Sandler comedy “Happy Gilmore,” where he played Chubbs Peterson’s nemesis who took his hand. Morris built an impressive resume beyond that role, appearing in major productions like “Interview with the Vampire,” “Dr. Dolittle 2,” and “Blues Brothers 2000,” demonstrating remarkable versatility for an animal performer.
Television Appearances and Professional Legacy
Morris became a familiar face on television as well, appearing on popular shows including Coach, Night Court, and multiple segments on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. His professional conduct and reliability made him a favorite among directors and production crews who valued working with trained animals instead of relying on digital alternatives.
Based on his growth rate and tooth loss, Morris the alligator was at least 80 years old when he died, the Colorado Gator Farm said in a Facebook post Sunday. https://t.co/XC3P9cAJHm
— KFYR-TV (@KFYRTV) May 15, 2025
Adam Sandler posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, showcasing Morris’s lasting impact on those who worked with him during his active years. The comedic actor praised the alligator’s professionalism while joking about his demanding nature, writing: “We are all gonna miss you. You could be hard on directors, make-up artists, costumers — anyone with arms or legs — but I know you did it for the ultimate good of the film.”
Peaceful Retirement and Preservation Plans
Morris retired from acting in 2006 and spent his remaining years at the Colorado Gator Farm, where he became a beloved visitor attraction. Jay Young, the farm’s owner, noticed changes in Morris’s behavior shortly before his passing, telling reporters: “He started acting strange about a week ago. He wasn’t lunging at us and wasn’t taking food.”
“I know it’s strange to people that we get so attached to an alligator, to all of our animals. … He had a happy time here, and he died of old age.”
The Colorado Gator Farm plans to preserve Morris through taxidermy, ensuring that future generations can appreciate this remarkable animal’s contribution to American entertainment. His preservation is a testament to a bygone era in filmmaking when trained animals brought authentic performances to the screen, connecting audiences to nature through the magic of cinema.
Sources:
https://dnyuz.com/2025/05/14/alligator-that-starred-in-happy-gilmore-dies-of-old-age-in-colorado/
https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/alligator-starred-happy-gilmore-dies-age-colorado-121819719
https://apnews.com/article/happy-gilmore-alligator-death-morris-b536794370e9f58462b7bdb198b8fcd8