When Morris the alligator was rescued from an illegal backyard enclosure in Los Angeles in the 1970s, no one could have predicted his future as a Hollywood star. Over the next three decades, Morris captivated audiences in films like Happy Gilmore and Dr. Dolittle 2, becoming an unexpected icon. After retiring in 2006, he spent his remaining years at the Colorado Gator Farm, where he was cherished by staff and visitors alike.
From Backyard Rescue to Silver Screen
Morris’s journey began when authorities discovered him being kept illegally in a Los Angeles backyard. He was taken in by a licensed handler who introduced him to the film industry. Morris quickly became a sought-after animal actor, with his most memorable role as the alligator that bites off Chubbs’s hand in Happy Gilmore. His filmography also includes appearances in Interview with the Vampire, Eraser, and Blues Brothers 2000, as well as TV shows like Night Court and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno alongside Steve Irwin.
A Gentle Giant at the Gator Farm
After retiring from acting, Morris was relocated to the Colorado Gator Farm in Mosca, Colorado. There, he lived peacefully for 19 years, becoming a favorite among the staff and visitors. Jay Young, the farm’s owner, recalled how Morris began showing signs of decline a week before his passing, including loss of appetite and disorientation. Despite the sadness, Young emphasized that Morris had a fulfilling life and was well-loved by those who cared for him.
Remembering a Unique Star
Adam Sandler, who starred alongside Morris in Happy Gilmore, paid tribute to his co-star on social media. He humorously recounted how Morris once refused to come out of his trailer unless provided with 40 heads of lettuce, highlighting the alligator’s unique personality. Sandler expressed his gratitude for the time they shared and the lessons he learned from Morris’s dedication to his craft.
Preserving a Legacy
To honor Morris’s legacy, the Colorado Gator Farm announced plans to taxidermy him, allowing future generations to learn about his life and contributions to entertainment. The farm believes this tribute aligns with Morris’s larger-than-life presence and ensures his story continues to inspire visitors. Morris’s journey from an illegal pet to a beloved film star and cherished resident of the Colorado Gator Farm serves as a testament to the unexpected paths life can take and the profound connections that can form between humans and animals.
adventuring, photography and videography. I am currently working towards a BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology at Stellenbosch University to go on to specialise in Marine Sciences one day.
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