Farewell To Sphen: The Penguin Who Became A Global Icon Of Equality

Sphen, the Australian gentoo penguin who became an unexpected global symbol of equality, has passed away at the age of 11, the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium announced on Thursday.

Sphen captured worldwide attention in 2018 when he formed a bond with fellow male gentoo penguin, Magic. The two were often seen waddling and swimming together before breeding season, and their same-sex partnership soon won the hearts of millions.

Dubbed "Sphengic," the pair became a powerful symbol of love and equality, raising two chicks together: Lara, now 6, and Clancy, 4. Their story touched countless lives and even inspired a Mardi Gras float, a feature in the Netflix series "Atypical," and inclusion in the education curriculum of New South Wales, Australia.

Following Sphen's death, the aquarium staff allowed Magic, aged 8, to see his partner one last time, helping him understand why Sphen wouldn’t return. Magic responded by singing, a gesture echoed by the other penguins in the colony, creating a poignant farewell.

“The loss of Sphen is heartbreaking to the penguin colony, the team, and everyone who has been inspired by Sphen and Magic’s story,” said Richard Dilly, the aquarium’s general manager. “We want to take this opportunity to reflect on and celebrate Sphen’s life, remembering what an icon he was.”

Sphen lived a full life for a gentoo penguin, whose average lifespan is around 12 to 13 years. His bond with Magic was remarkable, as the two were often seen together even outside of the breeding season—a rarity among their species.

The couple’s fame extended beyond their love story, helping the aquarium raise awareness and funds for critical causes like conservation, plastic pollution, climate change, and the protection of wild penguins.

In 2018, Sphen and Magic became parents after being entrusted with a "backup" egg from another penguin couple. On October 19, 2018, they welcomed their first chick, Lara, and in 2020, they expanded their family with the addition of Clancy.

Sphen and Magic were not the only same-sex penguin couple to hatch an egg successfully; similar couples in New York and Spain have also become parents. However, Sphen's impact went beyond his role as a parent, championing equality and inspiring change worldwide.

Tributes from fans poured in on the aquarium’s website, with many expressing their sorrow and admiration. “Rest in peace, little guy, what a wonder to the world you were with your beautiful Magic,” wrote Vivienne. Another fan, Vicki, added, “RIP to a champion. Love shows no boundaries.”

As the world bids farewell to Sphen, his legacy as a symbol of love, equality, and conservation will continue to inspire future generations.