Jack Hanna, affectionately known as “Jungle Jack,” is a name that has long been associated with wildlife conservation, animal education, and public television. Known for his enthusiastic approach and warm personality, Hanna became a household name through decades of television appearances and his long-standing leadership at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. In recent years, his health has become a matter of concern for many of his longtime admirers. With questions circulating about his current status, it is important to present accurate and up-to-date information. Is Jack Hanna still alive in 2025? What is the condition of his health, and how is his legacy being preserved?
This article answers those questions thoroughly, offering facts and insights about Jack Hanna’s life, health status, career achievements, and the impact he has made on wildlife conservation and public education.
Is Jack Hanna Still Alive in 2025?
Yes, Jack Hanna is alive as of May 2025. He is currently 78 years old. Although he has retired from public life and is no longer active in television or zoo work, he remains with his family in Montana. Hanna’s health has significantly declined due to advanced Alzheimer’s disease, a diagnosis his family made public in 2021. Despite this difficult journey, he is lovingly cared for by his wife, Suzi Hanna, and remains surrounded by family support.
The confirmation of his life status comes directly from his family and care team, who have offered occasional updates through trusted news outlets. Although his public appearances have ceased, his presence is still felt by those who were inspired by his career and mission.
Health Condition: Living with Alzheimer’s Disease
Jack Hanna was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2019, although his family publicly shared the diagnosis in 2021. Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects memory, thinking, behavior, and eventually physical functioning. In Hanna’s case, the disease has advanced significantly over the past few years.
His family has revealed that he no longer recognizes most of his loved ones. He has also lost the ability to communicate as he once did. These developments have led to his complete retirement from all public engagements. His wife, Suzi, has emphasized that while the Jack the public knew is no longer present in the same way, there are still quiet, meaningful moments shared between him and his close family.
They continue to live privately in Montana, where Hanna is receiving full-time care in a peaceful environment. His caregivers prioritize comfort, familiarity, and emotional connection. The family’s openness about Hanna’s diagnosis has helped raise public awareness of Alzheimer’s and provided a voice for many families dealing with similar challenges.
Early Life and Passion for Wildlife
Jack Bushnell Hanna was born on January 2, 1947, in Knoxville, Tennessee. From an early age, he displayed a love for animals and a deep interest in wildlife. He attended Muskingum University in Ohio, where he studied business and political science, but his passion for animals never faded.
In 1978, he was appointed as director of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, a position he held until 1992. Hanna inherited an aging zoo with declining attendance and turned it into one of the most respected zoological institutions in the United States. His leadership introduced modern enclosures, educational programming, and animal welfare reforms.
Even after stepping down as director, Hanna served as the zoo’s director emeritus for years, using his platform to support zoo initiatives, wildlife conservation, and global awareness efforts.
Television Career and National Recognition
Jack Hanna became a nationally recognized figure through his frequent appearances on late-night and morning television programs. He was a frequent guest on The Tonight Show, Late Show with David Letterman, and Good Morning America. In each of these appearances, Hanna brought animals to the stage and educated viewers about their biology, behavior, and natural habitats.
What set him apart was his ability to explain complex animal science in a relatable, entertaining way. He was not just a zookeeper—he was a communicator, bridging the gap between the public and the animal world.
Hanna also hosted several of his own syndicated programs, including:
- Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures
- Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild
- Jack Hanna’s Wild Countdown
These shows reached millions of viewers and were instrumental in promoting animal conservation, ecological literacy, and empathy toward nature. His work made learning about wildlife accessible to children, families, and educators.
Family Life and Personal Values
Jack Hanna is married to Suzi Hanna, his lifelong partner in both personal and professional endeavors. The couple has three daughters: Kathaleen, Suzanne, and Julie. Throughout his career, Hanna often spoke about the importance of family and credited his wife and children with supporting his mission and keeping him grounded during the pressures of public life.
The Hanna family has remained deeply involved in animal advocacy, and they have worked together to continue Jack’s vision of educating the public about animal welfare. Even now, with Jack facing serious health issues, the family continues to champion the values of compassion, dignity, and lifelong learning.
Legacy in Conservation and Education
Jack Hanna’s legacy is immense and multifaceted. He helped transform how the public views zoos—not just as recreational venues, but as vital centers for conservation, rescue, and education. Under his leadership, the Columbus Zoo achieved accreditation and expanded its role as a global leader in animal care and wildlife research.
His television programs helped foster environmental consciousness in millions of viewers, including young children who grew up watching his shows. Many veterinarians, zoologists, and conservationists today credit Hanna as one of the reasons they chose their professions.
Even during his absence from public life, his name continues to be associated with integrity, dedication, and a love of animals. Educational institutions and conservation organizations continue to cite his influence, and many zoos nationwide still utilize his programming in outreach and school events.
Public Awareness and Alzheimer’s Advocacy
Hanna’s diagnosis has not only drawn attention to his own personal health journey but also to the larger public health crisis surrounding Alzheimer’s disease. His family’s choice to speak publicly about his condition has helped reduce stigma, foster open conversations, and bring attention to the needs of caregivers.
By being transparent about his battle, the Hanna family has become a voice of advocacy in the Alzheimer’s community. They have encouraged others to seek early diagnosis, prepare for long-term care, and find support through community and family networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jack Hanna still alive in 2025?
Yes, Jack Hanna is alive as of May 2025 and resides in Montana with his wife.
What is his current health condition?
Jack Hanna has advanced Alzheimer’s disease. He no longer recognizes most family members and is retired from public life.
Where is he living now?
He lives in a private residence in Montana, receiving care from his family and medical professionals.
What was Jack Hanna most known for?
He was known for directing the Columbus Zoo, hosting wildlife TV programs, and making animal education accessible through national media.
Is Jack Hanna still involved with the zoo?
No. He officially retired from public engagements in 2021 and no longer participates in zoo operations due to his health condition.
Conclusion
Jack Hanna is a figure who profoundly shaped public understanding of animals, conservation, and environmental stewardship. Though his health has declined due to Alzheimer’s disease, his influence continues to resonate in classrooms, zoos, and conservation centers around the world. As of 2025, he remains alive, cared for by family, and remembered with deep admiration and respect.
His legacy is not defined by illness but by a lifetime of service, education, and compassion. In every child who dreams of becoming a zookeeper, in every animal saved through conservation programs, and in every adult inspired to protect nature, the legacy of Jack Hanna lives on.