Reptile influencer Brian Barczyk loses battle to cancer

Reptile enthusiast Brian Barczyk has died after spending 10 days in hospice care. He was 54.

The influencer had been battling pancreatic cancer since 2023. The news of death was announced on January 15, 2024.

Barczyk owned The Reptarium Reptile Zoo.

The Zoo’s staff paid tribute to their friend and mentor in a social media post.

“More than the guiding light of our organization, Brian's fervent passion for reptiles and wildlife, along with his steadfast dedication to education, has touched innumerable hearts and minds globally,” The Reptarium said.

“Our deepest sympathies are with Brian's family, his friends, and all those whose lives he has touched. We've lost an exceptional individual – a visionary, mentor, and friend,” the statement read. “For those of us who had the privilege of working alongside him, Brian's absence leaves an immeasurable void. As we navigate this difficult time, we find comfort in the memories and the lasting light of Brian's work. He will be deeply missed but indeed, never forgotten.”

Barczyk was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer almost a year ago – in February 2023.

He had revealed that the cancer was stage 2 but quickly became stage 4.

In the emotional YouTube video “This is Goodbye” - posted just 10 days before his death – he said he wouldn’t be able to see the LegaSea Aquarium being completed. He also added that his family will continue his dream of expanding The Reptarium and will update the vlog.

“I’m going to be able to look down on the legacy, I’m going to be able to look down on my family and everyone who I love,” he said in the emotional video. “I love you guys, you guys be good… inspire people.”

"I'm ready, guys. It was a tough year. It was so painful, the pain was incredible, the sickness was incredible, the treatment was incredible, everything about it was so bad,” the YouTuber added while thanking his “reptile army” for support.

Barczyk made a career out of his love for reptiles. He starred on Discovery Channel’s Venom Hunters and had over 5 million subscribers on his YouTube channel.

He is survived by his wife Lori and his two children – Noah and Jade.

The Barczyk family invited fans to a Public Memorial Walk-through to honor Brian’s memory will be held on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at Heritage Church.