Viral gay penguin Sphen dies aged 11 after raising 2 chicks with male partner

Sphen, the viral gay penguin, died at 11 years old .

The Sea Life Sydney Aquarium in Australia made the announcement about Sphen's death on Thursday, August 22. The aquarium released a statement and revealed that Sphen was close to turning 12 before he passed earlier this month, which is considered a long life for a gentoo penguin . Their average life span is "roughly" 12 to 13 years.

Sphen was one half of a world-famous same-sex "penguin power couple." He and his partner, Magic, went viral in 2018 and fell in love at the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. The two adopted two chicks – Sphengic (Lara) in 2018 and Clancy in 2020 – and raised them together.

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According to TMZ , Magic was taken to see Sphen one last time and Magic started singing once he saw his partner's body. Other members of the aquarium joined. The two shared a bond and love like no other. They enjoyed six years together. Sphen's legacy will live through his two kids and Magic.

They went viral in 2018 after the two were seen swimming together before breeding season. They were given a "backup egg" that another couple couldn't raise and they made sure the egg survived. Their bond and love inspired a Mardi Gras float, they were included in the NSW education syllabus, featured on Netflix's Atypical series, and more. Their love story have even been broadcasted in documentaries on same-sex animal couples.

Fans of the penguins left messages on the aquariums website and expressed their sadness. One person wrote: "I am so sorry for the loss of dear Sphen. He touched the hearts of so many, including mine. I have followed his journey with Magic since the start. The story of Sphen and Magic really highlight the importance of conservation. Sphen, you will be very missed." Another said: "Thank you Sphen and Magic for showing the world that love naturally comes in many forms. Our hearts ache for Magic." A third addded: "Vale Sphen. You, and your partner Magic, showed the world that same-sex love is indeed natural and that same-sex partners make brilliant parents. You will be missed."

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