Jim Fowler, the host of the 'Wild Kingdom', died at age 89

LOS ANGELES (Variety.com) – The animator of "Wild Kingdom," Jim Fowler, died Wednesday, according to a tribute made on the show's website. He was 89 years old.

Fowler co-organized with Mutual of Omaha the "Wild Kingdom" with Marlin Perkins from 1963. He was also known to be a regular guest of "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson", and Fowler was a close friend of the Speaker of the talk show.

Fowler is interested in wildlife growing up on his family's farm in Georgia. He studied zoology at the university, where he was also a star baseball player. According to his website, Fowler refused the Phillies and Yankees' offers to pursue a naturalist career.

Fowler aimed to educate the public about wildlife and encourage nature conservation.

Fowler said in a statement posted on his website: "What we need to do is ask ourselves," What are the benefits to me? "It's only then that we will understand that the continued existence of fauna and flora is essential for the quality of life of humans. . "

Jim Breheny, director of the Bronx Zoo, remembered the educator in a tweet: "We were saddened to learn of the passing of our friend Jim Fowler. Growing up, this Bronx child and millions of others spent every Sunday night with him and Wild Kingdom. He was a force and a model in my career choice. As a child, I would never have imagined becoming his friend.

Fowler is survived by his wife and two children.