Dr. Jane Goodall passed away on October 1 at age 91, leaving behind nearly a century of groundbreaking achievements in primatology and environmentalism.
Her pioneering work with chimpanzees in Gombe, Tanzania, showed us that these creatures have personalities, emotions, social bonds, and even tool-use traits once considered uniquely human. She bridged the gap between humans and the natural world, urging empathy, respect, and stewardship.
Disney worked closely with Dr. Jane Goodall during the creation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, seeking her guidance to ensure the park’s conservation message was authentic and impactful. In recognition of her contributions, she was honored with a dedicated plaque near the entrance of the Tree of Life theater, alongside a carved likeness of David Greybeard, the first chimpanzee to trust and approach her in the wild at Gombe. This meaningful tribute remains in place, but is currently closed off while Disney prepares the theater for the upcoming Zootopia: Better Zoogether show.
Her collaboration extended beyond the park. Through Disney’s Conservation Fund, more than $6.5 million supported her work with chimpanzees, habitat protection, and youth programs like Roots & Shoots. She donated her voice to Disneynature films, and remained a frequent guest at park milestones and Earth‑Month celebrations.
Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, captured her impact in a tribute via his Instagram:
“Dr. Jane Goodall, Dame of the British Empire, UN Messenger of Peace, and founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, had a profound impact on our world and all those who inhabit it. … We were proud to collaborate with her on a number of projects, including the instrumental role she played in the creation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. I’ll never forget when she was asked by a reporter where in the world she would choose to live if she were an animal, her response was Disney’s Animal Kingdom, because that’s where animals get the best care. Her legacy will live on, both in the movement she helped shape and the many people she inspired.”
Joe Rohde’s Touching Farewell
No tribute captures the personal bond better than that of Imagineer Joe Rohde, who worked closely with Jane. He posted this heartfelt remembrance on his Instagram:
“[Jane’s] public persona was so overwhelmingly compelling that it’s difficult sometimes to remember that she was just a person. But when you met with her, that is exactly what she was, a person, and that is what she wanted people to understand. ‘Just a person’ can do amazing and impactful things. Just a little girl, fascinated by animals, could break a whole series of societal norms and become an inspiration to millions and a political force for change at an international level.
Jane had an inexhaustible capacity for Hope. But she was very clear about what Hope was… Hope is action. If we are to remember her, it is through this. Those things that we hope for… they happen not because we wish for them, but because we do them. And we are many. So do not lose Hope because a great tree has fallen. Roots and Shoots are everywhere.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Though Jane is gone, her roots are everywhere. In every child curious about wildlife. In every conservation project, every forest planted, every act of kindness toward animals and planet.
Her passion and spirit will forever find a home at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, inspiring people to observe, respect, and protect the world we share.
Rest in peace, Dr. Jane Goodall. Your story is far from over.
