Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Jane Goodall, the celebrated conservationist and animal welfare advocate who passed away peacefully in Los Angeles at the age of 91. The announcement of Goodall’s death came from the Jane Goodall Institute on October 1, marking the end of a remarkable life dedicated to scientific discovery and environmental stewardship.
In a statement obtained by PEOPLE, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex reflected on Goodall’s profound impact, both globally and personally. “Dr. Jane Goodall DBE was a visionary humanitarian, scientist, friend to the planet, and friend to us,” they said, emphasizing her commitment to changing lives that extended far beyond public recognition. They also shared a tender memory, recalling how Goodall had held their son Archie when he was newborn and had “showered love and care to those who were privileged to know her.” Their words conveyed a deep sense of loss and gratitude for the personal connection they shared with this iconic figure.
Jane Goodall’s relationship with Harry and Meghan was rooted in a shared passion for environmental conservation and animal welfare. The conservationist was made a Dame in 2004 by then-Prince Charles, now King Charles III, linking her legacy to the British royal family in a meaningful way. Harry and Goodall first met in December 2018 at Kensington Palace, where they engaged in a conversation about their mutual dedication to protecting the natural world. Their bond strengthened the following year when Goodall visited the couple at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor in June 2019, just before a Global Leadership Meeting for the Jane Goodall Institute’s Roots & Shoots youth program at Windsor Castle. During that visit, Goodall fondly recalled how Meghan joined the meeting with their infant son Archie, whom she couldn’t resist holding despite his sleepy reluctance. This intimate moment captured the intersection of their environmental activism and family life, highlighting the personal warmth behind their public causes.
The Sussexes’ connection to Goodall was marked not only by shared values but also by moments of joy and spontaneity. At the Roots & Shoots event in July 2019, Harry famously invited Goodall to dance, recreating the playful “Chimpanzee Greeting” she had taught him during their first meeting. This gesture symbolized the unique way in which Goodall inspired those around her, bridging the worlds of science, activism, and human connection with genuine kindness and humor. It also underscored her pioneering role as the world’s foremost expert on chimpanzees, a position she earned through decades of groundbreaking research in Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park. Goodall’s work revolutionized how humans understand their relationship with animals, revealing the intricate social behaviors and personalities of chimpanzees in ways that transformed both science and public perception.
The Jane Goodall Institute’s tribute highlighted the breadth of her influence: “Dr. Goodall’s discoveries as an ethologist revolutionized science, and she was a tireless advocate for the protection and restoration of our natural world.” They acknowledged how her work reshaped not only the study of chimpanzees but also broader environmental awareness, inspiring curiosity, hope, and compassion in countless individuals worldwide. Goodall’s legacy paved the way for new generations of conservationists and activists, setting a high standard for dedication and empathy in the fight to preserve our planet.
The outpouring of grief and respect from across the world reflects Goodall’s extraordinary impact beyond scientific circles. From Hollywood stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Julia Louis-Dreyfus to political figures such as Justin Trudeau and Hillary Clinton, many have publicly mourned the loss of a visionary whose life’s work touched diverse communities. This collective mourning is a testament to Goodall’s ability to transcend professional boundaries and connect deeply with people from all walks of life.
In remembering Jane Goodall, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle not only honor a beloved friend but also underscore the power of personal stories in advancing larger causes. Their tribute reminds us that impactful storytelling—whether about individuals, families, or global challenges—builds bridges of empathy and engagement. In an age where activism and awareness often intersect with media and public attention, the legacy of Jane Goodall teaches us that authenticity, passion, and human connection remain at the heart of meaningful communication and lasting change.
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