Dame Jane Morris Goodall, popularly known as Jane Goodall, passed away at the age of 91. She was a primatologist, zoologist, and anthropologist, best known as a leading expert on chimpanzees.
Jane advocated for environmental protection, working with NASA on deforestation solutions in Africa, and co-founded Ethologists for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.
She also received global recognition with honors like Damehood, UN Messenger of Peace, and reputed environmental awards. The news of the death was announced by the Jane Goodall Institute, which stated that she died of 'natural causes.'
Actor Leonardo DiCaprio honored her on Instagram, calling her a 'hero for the planet' with the caption:
"Today we have lost a true hero for the planet, an inspiration to millions, and a dear friend. Jane Goodall devoted her life to protecting our planet and giving a voice to the wild animals and the ecosystems they inhabit. Her groundbreaking research on Chimpanzees in Tanzania transformed our understanding of how our closest relatives live, socialize, and think—reminding us that we are deeply connected not only to Chimpanzees and the other great apes, but to all life."
He also recalled how Jane traveled the world for decades, inspiring generations to care for nature and believe that 'every individual can make a difference.'
Tributes pour in following the death of Jane Goodall
Remembering Jane, Ellen DeGeneres wrote on Instagram:
"Thank you Jane for all the good you’ve done. You broke barriers for women all over the world."
Prime Minister of Canada Mark Carney wrote:
"The world has lost a tireless guardian of nature. Dr. Jane Goodall changed the way we understand animals — and our own humanity. Her advocacy inspired generations and her research revolutionized the field of biology."
CEO of Apple, Tim Cook, tweeted, mentioning Jane as a:
"Groundbreaking scientist and leader who taught us all so much about the beauty and wonder of our world. She never stopped advocating for nature, people, and the planet we share. May she rest in peace."
Joe Biden posted on X:
"Jill and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jane Goodall whose activism, vision, and message of hope mobilized a global movement to protect the planet. Above all, Jane taught us that when we search for humanity in the natural world around us, we discover it within ourselves."
Former PM of Canada Justin Trudeau wrote on X:
"Heartbroken to hear of Dr. Jane Goodall’s passing. She was a pioneer whose research and advocacy reshaped our understanding of the natural world. Her wisdom and compassion will live on in every act of conservation. All of us who were so greatly inspired by her will miss her deeply."
Co-founder of Virgin Group Richard Branson wrote:
"Dr Jane Goodall was a passionate champion of our beautiful planet and an amazing human being. We were together at the Planetary Guardians report launch in New York just last week - she was inspiring as ever."
Barack Obama wrote on X that Jane:
"Had a remarkable ability to inspire us to connect with the natural wonders of our world, and her groundbreaking work on primates and the importance of conservation opened doors for generations of women in science. Michelle and I are thinking of all those who loved and admired her."