Inside Paul Hogan’s Life: Fame, Family, and His Final Wish

Few names shine as brightly in Australian entertainment as Paul Hogan. Known across the globe as the charming, witty bushman from Crocodile Dundee, Hogan’s journey from a Sydney Harbour Bridge rigger to a Hollywood star is the stuff of legend. But behind the fame, laughter, and iconic lines lies a deeply personal story — one of love, loss, health struggles, and an enduring wish to return home. As he reflects on a remarkable life at 85, Hogan’s heart remains where it all began — in Australia.

Quick Bio Information

Full Name: Paul Hogan AM
Born: October 8, 1939, in Lightning Ridge, New South Wales, Australia
Age: 85 (as of 2025)
Occupation: Actor, Comedian, Writer, Producer
Famous For: Crocodile Dundee film series
Years Active: 1971–present
Nationality: Australian
Marital Status: Divorced (from Linda Kozlowski, 2014)
Children: Six, including Chance Hogan
Major Awards: Golden Globe Award, Australian of the Year (1985)

The Man Who Made the World Laugh

To generations of fans, Paul Hogan will forever be the embodiment of Australian humor — cheeky, down-to-earth, and irresistibly lovable. Born in northern New South Wales and raised in Sydney, Hogan captured the world’s imagination by bringing Aussie wit to the international stage. When he first appeared as the rugged yet charming Mick Dundee in Crocodile Dundee (1986), audiences were instantly hooked. The movie became a worldwide phenomenon, grossing hundreds of millions of dollars and earning Hogan a Golden Globe for Best Actor.

But his story began long before Hollywood came calling. Hogan’s humor wasn’t crafted in studios — it was born from the worksite banter of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, where he worked as a rigger. His quick wit and natural charisma made him a standout among his peers, leading to his big break on television. That everyman appeal would soon make him one of Australia’s most beloved public figures.

From the Harbour Bridge to Hollywood

Before becoming a global star, Hogan was simply an Aussie tradesman with a sharp tongue and a big dream. In the early 1970s, he appeared as a contestant on the TV talent show New Faces, showcasing a kind of comedy that was distinctly Australian — raw, honest, and self-deprecating. The performance caught the attention of producers, leading to the creation of The Paul Hogan Show (1973–1984), a sketch comedy series that made him a household name.

Hogan’s humor was simple but clever, often poking fun at Australian culture while celebrating it at the same time. His “ocker” persona — the friendly, rough-around-the-edges Aussie bloke — became a cultural touchstone. He wasn’t just funny; he was authentic. And that authenticity resonated far beyond Australia’s shores. By the mid-1980s, Hogan was not just a local star — he was the global face of Australian charm.

The Crocodile Dundee Phenomenon

Crocodile Dundee wasn’t just a film — it was a cultural event. Co-written and starred in by Hogan, it told the story of a rugged bushman navigating life in New York City. The film was a perfect blend of comedy, adventure, and heart, and it turned Paul Hogan into an international icon. It also put Australia on the map in a way no tourism campaign ever had.

The film’s success was monumental. It became the highest-grossing Australian film of all time and remains one of the most successful comedies in cinema history. Hogan’s portrayal of Mick Dundee was effortlessly charming, and his now-famous line, “That’s not a knife… this is a knife,” became part of pop culture forever. The success spawned two sequels and opened the door for Hogan to work in Hollywood — though he would always be known best for the role that made him a legend.

A Love Story in the Spotlight

While Crocodile Dundee brought fame, it also brought love. Hogan met Linda Kozlowski, his American co-star, on the set of the film. Their on-screen chemistry quickly turned into a real-life romance. The pair married in 1990 and eventually moved to the United States, where they built a family together. Their relationship was often under media scrutiny, but for many years, they seemed inseparable.

In 2014, after more than two decades together, Paul and Linda divorced. Yet, their bond endured. In recent years, they’ve been seen together publicly — even sharing a dinner in Los Angeles with their son, Chance, and Linda’s partner, Moulay Hafid Baba. Their enduring friendship reflects Hogan’s gracious and grounded nature. Despite fame and distance, family remains at the center of his world.

A Devoted Father

Among all of Hogan’s roles — actor, comedian, writer — the one he treasures most is fatherhood. His youngest son, Chance Hogan, now 27, is a musician based in California. Over the years, the tabloids have often speculated about Chance’s life, but Hogan has always been fiercely protective of him. In a recent interview, he defended his son passionately, saying, “He’s actually a hero.”

Hogan has often said that the only reason he remains in America is because of Chance. “I’d rather be there [in Australia],” he told The Daily Telegraph, “but I have my last child who is an American — he only has me.” That sense of loyalty and love defines Hogan’s later years. While his extended family, including ten grandchildren, live back home in Australia, he stays in California to support his son. It’s a touching example of how deeply he values family — even when it means sacrificing his own longing for home.

Health Battles and Aging Gracefully

At 85, Paul Hogan has faced his share of health challenges. In 2025, fans were concerned when he was photographed arriving in Sydney Airport in a wheelchair. The actor later explained that he suffers from arthritis and a knee injury — the result, he joked, of “being an 80-plus skateboarder.” Despite the setbacks, his humor remains as sharp as ever.

Hogan has spoken candidly about the realities of aging, acknowledging that time has slowed him down but never taken away his spirit. While his physical strength may have waned, his mind and wit are as lively as they were decades ago. His honesty about health struggles resonates with fans who have grown up watching him — reminding everyone that even icons are human.

Homesick at Heart

Though he’s lived in California for decades, Paul Hogan’s heart has never left Australia. “I’ve been homesick for years,” he admitted. “I miss the people, the ambience — there’s something you just can’t put your finger on, but there’s something about Australia that is friendlier and more laid-back.”

The actor’s deep love for his homeland has always been evident. From his early tourism campaigns to his iconic screen roles, Hogan has been a proud ambassador for Australia. But in recent years, that homesickness has grown stronger. Surrounded by his memories of family and friends back home, Hogan admits that his greatest wish is to spend his final days where it all began.

His Final Wish

In an emotional interview with 7News, Hogan revealed his final wish: “I want to come back… because I want to die here. I want my ashes scattered off the Harbour Bridge.” It’s a statement that moved fans around the world. For the man who helped put Australia on the global stage, there’s poetic beauty in wanting to return home to rest.

That wish is now written into his will. Hogan’s attachment to the Sydney Harbour Bridge — where his career began — makes it a fitting symbol of his life coming full circle. The bridge, which once represented his working-class beginnings, has become the place where he hopes to find eternal peace. For Australians, it’s a poignant reminder of how deeply he remains tied to his roots.

The Legacy of a Larrikin Legend

Beyond fame and fortune, Paul Hogan’s greatest legacy is cultural. Through humor and heart, he changed how the world saw Australia. His line from the 1984 tourism campaign — “I’ll slip an extra shrimp on the barbie for you” — became an iconic catchphrase that drew millions of visitors to the country. The campaign transformed Australia’s image from a remote outpost to a dream destination.

In 1985, Hogan was named Australian of the Year, honoring his contribution to national identity and entertainment. From The Paul Hogan Show to Crocodile Dundee, his body of work defined a generation of Australian comedy and film. His influence continues to inspire comedians, filmmakers, and storytellers across the nation.

Looking Back with Gratitude

As he reflects on his life, Paul Hogan remains humble. Despite international stardom, he’s never forgotten where he came from. His story — from a bridge worker to an Oscar-nominated writer and global icon — is one of resilience, humor, and authenticity. Even now, Hogan continues to teach fans a simple truth: you can achieve the world’s greatest success and still yearn for home.

His humor may have made the world laugh, but his humility makes them love him. Whether he’s remembered for his wit, his kindness, or his enduring patriotism, Hogan’s legacy is secure. And when his ashes one day drift across Sydney Harbour, they’ll carry the spirit of a man who never stopped being proudly, unmistakably Australian.

Final Thoughts

Paul Hogan’s story is more than just the tale of an actor who found fame — it’s the story of a man who carried the spirit of Australia wherever he went. From the working-class streets of Sydney to the lights of Hollywood, he has lived with humor, integrity, and heart. And even as time passes, his legacy continues to remind the world that true success isn’t just about fame — it’s about staying true to who you are.

FAQs About Paul Hogan

Who Is Paul Hogan?
Paul Hogan is an Australian actor, comedian, and writer best known for his role as Mick Dundee in the Crocodile Dundee films. He became one of Australia’s most recognized cultural figures worldwide.

How Old Is Paul Hogan Now?
As of 2025, Paul Hogan is 85 years old. Despite his age, he continues to make occasional public appearances and remains an influential figure in entertainment.

Where Does Paul Hogan Live Today?
Hogan currently resides in Los Angeles, California, though he has expressed a strong desire to return to Australia permanently.

What Happened to Paul Hogan’s Health?
He has been open about facing arthritis and mobility issues. However, he remains positive and maintains his humor despite these challenges.

Who Was Paul Hogan’s Wife?
His ex-wife is actress Linda Kozlowski, whom he met while filming Crocodile Dundee. They married in 1990 and divorced in 2014 but remain on good terms.

How Many Children Does Paul Hogan Have?
Paul Hogan has six children, including his youngest, Chance Hogan, who lives in the United States and is a musician.

What Is Paul Hogan’s Final Wish?
Hogan’s final wish is to return to Australia and have his ashes scattered off the Sydney Harbour Bridge — the place where his incredible journey began.

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