Sphen, one half of the famous gay penguin couple

Sphen departed this life today, leaving behind his beloved penguin partner Magic. The pair rose to worldwide fame in 2018 when they successfully hatched an egg and raised their daughter Sphengic (aka Lara).

In 2020, they raised another young penguin, proving to scofflaws that their parenting skills were indeed top-notch. They spent six years together and inspired news reports, children's books and documentaries.

Unfortunately, their love story is over. Sphen seems to have died of natural causes at the ripe old age (for a penguin) of 12 years.

Magic was allowed to see Sphen's body to help him cope with his loss. He immediately started singing and the rest of the penguin colony joined in. We can hope they were trying to comfort him during this sad time.

Farewell, Sphen… rest in peace and know that Magic will one day accompany you across the rainbow bridge.

When the world-famous gay penguin Sphen died in Sydney, his partner started singing (The Guardian)