Beloved activist and respected chimpanzee expert, Dr Jane Goodall passed away aged 91. Now many celebrities, royals and fans alike are sharing tributes in her memory.
A statement released by The Jane Goodall Institute confirmed Jane passed away from natural causes on October 1 in California, where she was on a speaking tour.
Jane Fonda was was among the first stars to commemorate her passing.
“My heart breaks at the news that the brave, heartful, history-making Jane Goodall has passed,” she began.
“Through her work with chimps, she did more than any human being has, to let us understand the richness of animal lives: their intelligence, skills, unique personalities, use of tools, empathy, suffering when one of theirs was killed. I loved her very much. I think the best way we can honor her life is to treat the earth and all its beings like our family, with love and respect. ❤️”
Prince Harry, who had a friendship with the conservationist for many years after first meeting in 2018, shared a message with wife, Meghan Markle.
“Dr Jane Goodall DBE was a visionary humanitarian, scientist, friend to the planet, and friend to us,” it read. “Her commitment to changing lives extends beyond what the world saw, and also to what we personally felt.
“She held our son, Archie, when he was first born, and showered love and care to those who were privileged to know her. She will be deeply missed.”
Award winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio also shared a message, calling her a “true hero for the planet,” an “inspiration” 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,” he wrote on Instagram.
“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.
“For decades, Jane travelled the world with tireless energy, awakening generations to the wonder of the natural world. She spoke directly to the next generation, instilling hope, responsibility, and the belief that every individual can make a difference. She inspired millions to care, to act, and to hope. She never stopped.
“My deepest condolences to her family.”
