Beloved reptile influencer Brian Barczyk has died following a year-long battle with stage-four pancreatic cancer.
The social media star, 54, who built a legion of over 1.6 million Instagram followers with his enthusiasm for cold-blooded creatures, died Monday in Michigan.
In a heartbreaking post from his account shared by his company, The Reptarium, Barczyk was described as having ‘touched innumerable hearts and minds globally.’
The sad news comes days after the environmentalist shared a gut-wrenching 16-minute final goodbye to his fans, where he admitted of his cancer diagnosis, ‘we really thought we could beat this.’
Beloved reptile influencer Brian Barczyk, 54, passed away on Monday following a year-long battle with stage four pancreatic cancer
The reptile influencer shared a heartbreaking ‘goodbye’ video with fans last week, after he entered hospice care but heartbreakingly admitted of his cancer diagnosis, ‘we really thought we could beat this’
Tributes have flooded in for Barczyk, who was described by his loved ones as having a ‘fervent passion for reptiles and wildlife, along with his steadfast dedication to education’
The influencer became known among the wildlife community for his high-energy videos and connection with an array of tropical animals, as his obituary paid tribute to his ‘fervent passion for reptiles and wildlife, along with his steadfast dedication to education.’
‘Our deepest sympathies are with Brian’s family, his friends, and all those whose lives he has touched,’ the statement continued.
‘We’ve lost an exceptional individual – a visionary, mentor, and friend. For those of us who had the privilege of working alongside him, Brian’s absence leaves an immeasurable void.
‘As we navigate this difficult time, we find comfort in the memories and the lasting light of Brian’s work. He will be deeply missed but indeed, never forgotten.’
Barczyk’s website added that his ‘mission went far beyond a simple fascination with reptiles; he was a true advocate for sparking curiosity, respect, and understanding towards all facets of nature.’
‘His unparalleled ability to nurture an appreciation for the animal kingdom was extraordinary. Brian’s enthusiasm wasn’t just contagious; it was transformative, turning fear into fascination and wonder.
‘In mourning Brian, we are also celebrating an extraordinary life. His invaluable contributions to herpetology, the lives he profoundly enriched, and the lasting positive impact he made on the world, will resonate for generations to come.’
The obituary also included a final quote from the wildlife enthusiast: ‘Be kind to someone, and I will see you in the next one.’
He thanked his millions of fans in his emotional goodbye, saying his path to social media fame was ‘an amazing journey and one that has changed my life’
The influencer became known among the wildlife community for his high-energy videos and connection with an array of tropical animals
It comes days after Barczyk’s fans received a solemn final YouTube video after he entered hospice care, in a video titled: ‘This is Goodbye.’
He opens the sad video by welcoming his fans back to the vlog for the last time – after doing it over 2,000 times throughout his stint as a reptile influencer.
‘It’s been an amazing journey and one that has changed my life,’ he said in the emotional video.
He paid tribute to his fans, known as the ‘reptile army’, as the video played a montage of highlights from his career – namely connecting with reptiles.
‘This last year has been difficult with my cancer, with the ups and downs of treatment,’ he said. ‘We really thought we could beat this.’
When he entered hospice care over a week ago, he told his fans not to worry as he ‘had Jesus’ with him and he was prepared to ‘spend eternity in heaven.’
‘I’m going to be able to look down on the legacy, I’m going to be able to look down on my family, and everyone who I love. I’m the lucky one,’ he told fans.
‘I’m ready, guys. It was a tough year,’ he said through tears. ‘It was so painful, the pain was incredible, the sickness was incredible, the treatment was incredible, everything about it was so bad.’
The wildlife enthusiast received the devastating stage four pancreatic cancer diagnosis almost a year ago
Following news of his death, Barczyk’s heartbroken fans saluted his career and the profound impact he had on millions.
Marlon Grennan, a dog influencer with 1.3 million followers on Facebook, responded: What an amazing soul he was so much joy he brought to so many! My deepest sympathies goes out to the family and friends rest easy Brian your legacy will live forever! We will always be watching.’
Another fan said: ‘Rest in peace Brian, you’ll always be in the hearts of the millions of people you’ve inspired to love animals, including mine. Thank you for everything!’
‘I’m glad he’s finally not in anymore pain.. What a strong soul. Rest in peace Brian,’ concluded another.