“Heartbreaking loss” of world-famous gay penguin

Sydney gentoo penguin Sphen, whose same-sex love story made him and his partner Magic a symbol of equality around the world, has died.

The couple rose to fame in 2018 when news of their same-sex relationship at a Sydney aquarium made headlines around the world.

The adorable and loyal duo recently celebrated their sixth anniversary together and successfully adopted and raised two chicks: Sphengic (Lara) in 2018 and Clancy in 2020.

It is not only a beautiful love story, but also an immeasurable impact as a symbol of equality around the world, said a statement from the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium on Thursday.

Their love story inspired a carnival float, was included in the NSW school curriculum and was even featured in the Netflix series Atypical..

Their love story has been told in countless books and Sphen and Magic have even appeared in documentaries about same-sex animal couples, the aquarium said.

“The loss of Sphen is heartbreaking for the penguin colony, the team and everyone who was inspired or positively influenced by the story of Sphen and Magic,” aquarium executive director Richard Dilly said Thursday.

“We want to take this opportunity to reflect on and celebrate Sphen's life. We want to remember what an icon he was, what a unique connection he had with Magic, and what a positive impact he had on the world.”

Sphen appears to have died of natural causes in August, shortly before his 12th birthday.

His younger partner, eight years old, was taken by his side to help him cope with the loss and understand that his partner would not return.

“He immediately began singing, which was wonderfully reciprocated by the colony,” the aquarium said.

Aquarium staff said their main focus is on the welfare of Magic, who is entering his first breeding season without his mate.