SeaWorld Orlando has confirmed the passing of Katina, one of the park’s most well-known killer whales, marking a solemn moment in the resort’s long history. In a statement shared on social media, SeaWorld said Katina was 50 years old and had been experiencing declining health as she entered her geriatric years. Animal care and medical teams monitored her condition closely for weeks, ultimately prioritizing her comfort as her health continued to worsen.
“Our SeaWorld family is mourning the loss of one of our beloved killer whales, Katina,” the park wrote. “Despite everyone’s extraordinary efforts, she passed away while surrounded by animal care and medical teams who have worked closely with her for nearly 40 years.”
The park also reflected on Katina’s presence and the impression she left on generations of visitors. According to SeaWorld, Katina was known for a distinct personality, including her habit of sticking out her tongue and her enjoyment of “speed swims” that sent water swirling through the pool. “For many wonderful years, Katina awed and inspired millions of our guests to appreciate and learn more about this amazing species,” the statement continued, while thanking the community for its support during a difficult time.
Katina’s life and care are part of a broader story that stretches back to SeaWorld Orlando’s opening on December 15, 1973. The park arrived during a key period in Central Florida’s tourism growth, at a time when Walt Disney World Resort was still establishing itself. SeaWorld offered a different kind of experience, blending marine animal exhibits, stadium-style shows, and educational presentations focused on ocean life. From the beginning, the park positioned itself as both a theme park and a zoological destination.
A major shift came in 1989, when Anheuser-Busch acquired SeaWorld. Under its ownership, SeaWorld Orlando expanded beyond its original show-driven model. Attractions such as Journey to Atlantis, Kraken, Manta, and later Mako signaled a stronger focus on thrill rides. At the same time, immersive exhibits like Expedition Odyssey (formerly Wild Arctic), Turtle Trek, and Antarctica Realm broadened how the park told stories about marine environments.
In the 2010s, SeaWorld Orlando entered a period of reevaluation following the release of Blackfish in 2013. Public scrutiny led to significant changes in how the park approached its animal programs, particularly those involving orcas. SeaWorld phased out traditional theatrical whale shows, ended its orca breeding program, and shifted presentations toward conservation and natural behaviors.
“In 2016, SeaWorld announced that we were ending our killer whale breeding program and that the orcas in our care are the last generation at our park,” the official SeaWorld Orlando website states. “Our goal is to inspire and educate guests to take action by seeing these magnificent animals up-close to better understand why protecting wildlife and our environment is so critical today.”
Today, SeaWorld Orlando operates as part of United Parks & Resorts and continues to balance its marine life heritage with new attractions and themed areas, including Sesame Street Land. As the theme park capital grows increasingly competitive, the resort continues to evolve while acknowledging moments that define its past.
It’s always sad to hear of the passing of our beloved creatures 💗