Paul Hogan is a name synonymous with Australian humor, charm, and outback adventure. Best known globally for his iconic role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee in the Crocodile Dundee film series, Hogan became an international sensation in the 1980s. His laid-back persona, witty one-liners, and rugged charisma helped put Australian cinema on the world map. As time has passed and Hogan has largely stepped away from public life, many people wonder: Is Paul Hogan still alive?
This article offers a clear answer, along with a comprehensive look into Hogan’s current life status, health updates, career milestones, personal journey, and cultural impact both in Australia and around the globe.
Is Paul Hogan Still Alive in 2025?
Yes, Paul Hogan is still alive as of 2025.
Now 84 years old, Hogan is living a quiet, private life, having stepped back from regular public appearances and acting roles. While health concerns have limited his mobility and activity in recent years, he remains an enduring figure in entertainment. Hogan continues to receive public support and media attention, especially in Australia, where he remains a beloved national icon.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Paul Hogan was born on October 8, 1939, in Lightning Ridge, New South Wales, Australia. Before finding fame, he worked as a rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It was this humble blue-collar background that helped shape the everyman persona he later embodied on screen.
Hogan’s first big break came in the early 1970s when he appeared as a contestant on the Australian talent show New Faces. Rather than compete traditionally, he used the opportunity to mock the show and its format—winning over viewers with his bold humor.
This led to the creation of The Paul Hogan Show (1973–1984), a sketch comedy series that Hogan wrote and starred in. It became a major hit in Australia and New Zealand, known for its irreverent humor and uniquely Australian characters.
Global Breakthrough with Crocodile Dundee
Paul Hogan achieved international superstardom in 1986 with the release of Crocodile Dundee. The film, co-written by Hogan himself, told the story of an Australian bushman navigating the urban jungle of New York City.
Film Highlights:
- Became the highest-grossing Australian film of all time at its release
- Nominated for Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay
- Hogan won a Golden Globe for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy
- Spawned two sequels: Crocodile Dundee II (1988) and Crocodile Dundee in Los Angeles (2001)
The film’s success catapulted Hogan into Hollywood stardom. His catchphrase “That’s not a knife… that’s a knife,” became a pop culture staple, and he was celebrated for introducing international audiences to Australian humor and lifestyle.
Later Career and Acting Work
While Hogan never matched the overwhelming global success of Crocodile Dundee, he continued to work in film and television for many years.
Other Notable Roles:
- Almost an Angel (1990)
- Lightning Jack (1994)
- Flipper (1996, voice role)
- Strange Bedfellows (2004)
- The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee (2020) – a meta-comedy in which Hogan plays a fictionalized version of himself
In addition to acting, Hogan was a well-known spokesman for Australian tourism. His 1980s commercials for the Australian Tourist Commission included the famous invitation to Americans to “put another shrimp on the barbie.”
Health and Public Concerns
As of 2025, Paul Hogan’s health has been a topic of public concern, particularly in the past few years.
In 2022, Hogan revealed in interviews that he was suffering from muscle deterioration and a debilitating health condition that caused significant weight loss. He stated that he was dependent on a pacemaker and had difficulty performing daily tasks without assistance.
Despite these challenges, Hogan remained upbeat and expressed gratitude for the care he received and the support from fans around the world. He returned to Australia after living in the United States for many years, seeking to spend his remaining years close to home.
Personal Life and Family
Paul Hogan has been married twice. His first marriage to Noelene Edwards lasted from 1958 to 1981 and again from 1982 to 1990, after a brief reconciliation. They had five children together.
He later married his Crocodile Dundee co-star Linda Kozlowski in 1990. The couple had one son and divorced in 2014. Despite the split, Hogan has remained close with his children and speaks fondly of family in interviews.
Hogan has often expressed his desire for privacy and has largely avoided Hollywood parties or political activism, preferring to stay grounded in his roots and values.
Tax Disputes and Legal Issues
In the 2000s, Hogan was involved in a high-profile legal dispute with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) over allegations of offshore tax evasion. Hogan vigorously denied wrongdoing and referred to the case as a “witch hunt.”
After years of legal battles, the case was settled in 2012 with no admission of guilt. The ordeal reportedly took a toll on Hogan’s finances and emotional well-being, but he emerged from the controversy with public sympathy and support.
Cultural Legacy in Australia and Beyond
Paul Hogan is considered a national treasure in Australia. He played a key role in shaping international perceptions of Australian culture—portraying the Aussie larrikin as rugged, humorous, and kind-hearted.
Contributions to Culture:
- Helped globalize Australian film through Crocodile Dundee
- Represented Australian tourism and national pride
- Pioneered a distinct comedic style rooted in self-deprecation and wit
- Opened doors for Australian actors in Hollywood
Even as newer generations discover his work, Hogan remains synonymous with a golden era of Australian entertainment.
Public Appearances and Recent Activity
Although Paul Hogan rarely makes public appearances now due to his health, he occasionally gives interviews and statements through media outlets. His 2020 film The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee served as a farewell to acting and a humorous reflection on his legacy.
He also maintains a modest online presence through official interviews, tributes, and fan pages. His fans frequently post clips from his classic comedy sketches and movies, keeping his legacy alive across platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paul Hogan still alive in 2025?
Yes. Paul Hogan is alive as of 2025, although he lives privately and is dealing with age-related health issues.
Where does Paul Hogan live now?
After many years in Los Angeles, Hogan returned to Australia, seeking better health support and the comfort of being close to family.
What is Paul Hogan best known for?
He is best known for creating and starring in Crocodile Dundee (1986) and for his comedic work in The Paul Hogan Show.
Is Paul Hogan still acting?
No. Hogan has effectively retired from acting, with his most recent role being a satirical version of himself in The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee (2020).
How old is Paul Hogan?
Paul Hogan was born on October 8, 1939, making him 84 years old in 2025.
Did Paul Hogan win any major awards?
Yes. He won a Golden Globe Award and received an Academy Award nomination for Crocodile Dundee. He has also been honored with Australian awards and recognitions for lifetime achievement.
Conclusion
So, is Paul Hogan still alive? Yes—and although he has retired from the spotlight, his influence on entertainment and Australian identity is as strong as ever. At 84, Hogan remains a respected and cherished figure known not just for his humor and talent, but also for his humility and resilience.
From the construction sites of Sydney to Hollywood red carpets, Paul Hogan’s journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and laughter. In 2025, his legacy continues to inspire fans around the world—reminding us that sometimes, the most unforgettable stories come from the most unlikely places.