Tilikum was the subject of the Blackfish documentary (Picture: Rex)

Tilikum, the SeaWorld orca and subject of the Blackfish documentary has died.

The whale was estimated to be 36 years old, he spent 25 years in captivity at SeaWorld.

SeaWorld said in a statement: ‘The SeaWorld family is deeply saddened to announce that one of its most well-known orcas, Tilikum, has passed away.

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The whale died early this morning, January 6. SeaWorld say he was surrounded by the trainers, care staff and veterinarians.’


Their statement added: ‘Like all older animals, Tilikum had faced some very serious health issues. While the official cause of death will not be determined until the necropsy is completed, the SeaWorld veterinarians were treating a persistent and complicated bacterial lung infection.



‘The suspected bacteria is part of a group of bacteria that is found in water and soil both in wild habitats and zoological settings.

‘Tilikum’s veterinarians and caretakers delivered various treatment regimens over the course of this illness, which consisted of, among other things, combinations of anti-inflammatories, anti-bacterials, anti-nausea medications, hydration therapy and aerosolized antimicrobial therapy.’

SeaWorld have confirmed Tilikum’s death (Picture: Magnolia Pictures)

Blackfish explores the link between Tilikum and the death of three people, including SeaWorld staff – Keltie Byrne in 1991, Daniel P Dukes in 1999 and Dawn Brancheau in 2010.

Since the film’s released in 2013, the attraction has reported a decline in attendance.

SeaWorld announced the whale’s health was suffering in March last year.

President & CEO of SeaWorld Joel Manby said: ‘Tilikum had, and will continue to have, a special place in the hearts of the SeaWorld family.’

‘My heart goes out to our team who cared for him like family.’