Popular YouTube and TikTok reptile influencer Brian Barczyk dies at 54
Brian Barczyk, who was one of the most popular animal YouTubers, has died aged 54.
Brian Barczyk has garnered over 5.28 million subscribers on his YouTube channel and 7.2 million on TikTok, and is most known for his videos largely centered around reptiles.
He started his career on YouTube in 2011, making him one of the first successful reptile-focused channels, and one of the most recognizable faces in the herpetology hobby.
He was also the host of Discovery Channel TV series Venom Hunters, where he hunted down various reptiles in the wild. On his YouTube channel, he’d also had notable collaborations with Logan Paul, Mr. Beast, and Coyote Peterson.
Brian Barczyk dies after battle with cancer
On January 16, Barczyk’s Instagram posted the news of his death, confirming he’d lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. It read: “On behalf of the Barczyk family and our entire team at The Reptarium, it is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Brian Barczyk.”
“Brian’s fervent passion for reptiles and wildlife, along with his steadfast dedication to education, has touched innumerable hearts and minds globally.”
“We’ve lost an exceptional individual – a visionary, mentor, and friend. For those of us who had the privilege of working alongside him, Brian’s absence leaves an immeasurable void.”
The family of Barczyk shared a link encouraging showing support by sending donations of digital flowers, buying a wall sponsorship, or being an ambassador to many of the animals Barczyk helped look after.
Barzyck had documented his battle on his channel, and posted his final personal video on January 5 announcing that he would not be beating the cancer.
Barczyk, said: “I pray you guys will continue to watch the vlog and continue to follow along because nothing is going to change. Our message is just the same, the only difference is you’re just not going to see me. I’m ready guys.”
“I hope I changed some lives. I hope I inspired people and will continue to inspire people to love life.”
Many members of the herpetology community and fans have shared their appreciation of Barczyk’s work on the Instagram post including Coyote Peterson, Tyler Nolan, WickensWickerReptiles and more.