How a small Ohio zoo became a national landmark through television

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Jack Hanna didn't just manage animals; he revolutionized the public's relationship with them. By trading antiquated cages for naturalistic habitats and leveraging his own likable persona, he transformed a run-down facility into a premier zoological park, proving that education and entertainment are powerful tools for conservation.

Jack Hanna's tenure as director of the Columbus Zoo (1978–1992) is defined by a massive structural and cultural overhaul. When he arrived, the facility was a small, run-down operation. Hanna implemented a strategy of networking with local business leaders to secure funding for expansive, naturalistic habitats, specifically aiming to replace the "antiquated cagelike" enclosures that had previously defined the zoo's aesthetic. Before his time in Ohio, he managed a wildlife adventure company. He also owned a farm in Tennessee where he initially operated a petting zoo. This early venture ended after a lion attack on a child in 1972.

His success was rooted in a dual-track approach: educational programming and high-profile entertainment. To boost attendance, he hosted events that balanced public interest with animal welfare. A pivotal moment occurred in 1983 following the birth of twin gorillas; Hanna accepted an invitation on Good Morning America, which served as a springboard for a prolific media career. He launched several distinct series, including Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures. His media presence also included a role as a wildlife correspondent for FOX News and CNN.

This visibility allowed him to become a household name on programs like Late Night with David Letterman and Larry King Live. Beyond the spotlight, Hanna's career was shaped by personal and professional transitions. He began his zoological journey as director of the Central Florida Zoo (1973–1975) before moving to Ohio, a move partially motivated by the proximity to Columbus Children's Hospital for his daughter's leukemia treatment. While he eventually retired in 2020 and was later diagnosed with dementia in 2021, his legacy remains tied to the R. Marlin Perkins Award for Professional Excellence, honoring his role in elevating the standards of American zoology. Hanna earned his bachelor's degree from Muskingum College in 1969. During his college years, he kept a donkey in a shed behind his fraternity house.

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