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How did 'Dolphin Tale' star Winter die? Beloved mammal died at 16!

A Twitter user wrote, 'I can’t imagine how devastated her care staff are tonight. Winter wasn’t just a dolphin...she was an inspiration to millions!'

Winter, the dolphin who starred in the 'Dolphin Tale' movies has died. Earlier in the week, she was reported to be having gastrointestinal issues and on November 11, reports emerged that her condition was critical. She was a beloved fixture at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Florida and they sent out a press release with an update about her health on Thursday afternoon. "Earlier this week we shared that initial tests indicated Winter the Dolphin was likely fighting a gastrointestinal infection. Today, test results show that despite treatment her intestinal abnormalities have intensified, making Winter’s condition critical," the update read. 

The aquarium had announced they would remain shut for the public on November 12 and reopen on Saturday so they could provide the best care for Winter. The star of the 2011 film 'Dolphin Tale' and the 2014 follow-up 'Dolphin Tale 2', Winter shared the screen with Harry Connick Jr, Ashley Judd, and Morgan Freeman. The much-loved creature, 16, died at 8 pm on November 11, according to an update from the CMA. Patrons who had interacted with the establishment and people who had watched her in the movie are grieving her loss while sharing their fondest memories involving Winter on Twitter. 

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How did 'Dolphin Tale' star Winter die?

Clearwater Aquarium updated their followers about the news of Winter's passing through their Twitter page. "With heavy hearts, CMA announced tonight that Winter the Dolphin died at approximately 8 pm as animal care experts from around the country worked to treat her gastrointestinal abnormality. The CMA family is devastated," the tweet read. A longer update about the tragedy on their website stated that Winter was loved and held by her caregivers in her final moments. CMA said they could save her despite the medical team's "several life-saving efforts".

“While we are heartbroken by Winter’s death, we are comforted knowing that our team did everything possible to give her the best chance at survival. We worked with specialists and marine mammal experts from around the country to provide her with the best care available. Our staff worked around the clock during this challenging time,” said Veterinarian Dr. Shelly Marquardt, DVM, CVA. “I’m honored to work alongside such dedicated and talented professionals who gave their all for Winter," she added. A memorial for Winter is in the works and plans for the same will be announced soon by the CMA. 

Internet grieves Winter 'an inspiration for millions'

"I can’t imagine how devastated her care staff are tonight. Winter wasn’t just a dolphin...she was an inspiration to millions! RIP Winter...our annual trip to Clearwater won’t be the same," a tweet read. "Took my kids to visit Winter earlier this year. So sad. RIP Winter," read another tweet. "Oh no no no. The Aquarium is just a few miles from where I grew up. Had the pleasure of seeing Winter several times. RIP Winter," a third tweeted. "RIP Winter thank you for showing me my love for dolphins and all animals. Thanks for making me realize I want to be a zoologist. Thank you for the great memories. I hope you’re resting more comfortably now," wrote another crushed Winter fan. "RIP Winter you’re a beautiful dolphin! You gave so much joy to the kids & world!" another tweet read. "RIP Winter thanks for the joy you gave millions," said another, bidding goodbye to the beloved dolphin.