Jane Goodall, Chimp Whisperer and Zoologist Extraordinaire, Dead at 91

October 1, 2025

Goodall, most commonly known for her extreme ability to tame the chimpanzee, passed away on the morning of October 1st, 2025. She studied the social and familial interactions between chimpanzees and humans for 60 years. She also was the founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and the Roots and Shoots program. Collectively, Goodall worked extensively and routinely on conservation and animal welfare and health issues. The Nonhuman Rights Project board welcomed Goodall in 2022, and remained a board member until her death. Further back in 2002, she was named a United Nations Messenger of Peace for her research and development in the field of zoology and animal sciences. While on a speaking tour in the United States, Jane Goodall succumbed to old age and natural causes, leading to her death.

Goodall contributed endless amounts of research to the field of zoology and animal sciences, which will never be forgotten. She leaves behind a legacy that must be carried on by future zoologists, and a legacy of peacekeeping, intelligence, and an interest in the wellbeing of creatures who deserve as much attention as we humans do.

-Matt Weed

News Director at 88.3 FM WXOU