Morris the Alligator: A Scaled Legend of Hollywood Roars His Last
In a world of fleeting fame and disposable digital effects, few stars have left a legacy as enduring — and as toothy — as Morris the Alligator. With the recent announcement of his death at over 80 years old, fans of cult cinema, creature features, and classic practical effects are mourning not just the loss of an animal, but the passing of a true Hollywood original — a living fossil in every sense of the word, who clawed and snapped his way into cinematic history.
Known best as the rampaging star of Alligator (1980), Morris was more than just a stunt gator. He was a presence, a performer whose imposing physicality, stoic stare, and reptilian grace brought chilling realism to roles that would have devoured lesser creatures — and possibly some co-stars.
Now, with his passing at the Colorad...
