Panthera Statement on the Life and Legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall 

Media Contact: Susie Weller Sheppard, sweller@panthera.org, 347-446-9904 

New York, NY – Dr. Jane Goodall, one of the world’s most beloved conservationists synonymous with the study of chimpanzees, passed away at the age of 91 yesterday on October 1, 2025.  

Panthera CEO Dr. Frederic Launay stated, “We at Panthera are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Jane Goodall, a friend, mentor and conservationist whose boundless love of the natural world made her a household name inspiring generations of young and old to protect our planet and all of its inhabitants.”  

“Hers is a soul, life and legacy that can never be replicated. A young female in a virtually male-only field at the time, when the pursuit of a career in zoology and primatology was nearly unthinkable, Jane cared not and set forth, at sometimes great physical cost, to explore the world of our wild kin.  

“Part scientist and part anthropologist, Jane held a mirror up to human and chimpanzee societies alike to uncover our social and behavioral similarities, languages and individual personalities. In forcing us closer to the wild world, she transformed our understanding of mankind’s time and role on this planet. 

“Evolving into a figurehead for global wildlife conservation able to connect with every generation, Jane’s biggest mark is undoubtedly that left upon the eyes and minds of young women and men admiring and seeking to replicate her almost fairytale wilderness life and career. From Gombe to Great Britain, Jane spread messages of hope and humor amidst record biodiversity loss, seeking to educate and uplift the world until her absolute last days.  

“Thank you, Jane, for choosing the path of most resistance and allowing your life to serve as an example of reconnection to our wild roots and appreciation for every morsel of our planet.  

“In her name, let us all take a breath, slow down, step outside and seek gratitude and protection for the remarkable wildlife of this world.”