Renowned Reptile Enthusiast Brian Barczyk Passes Away After Battle with Cancer

Brian Barczyk, a globally recognized reptile enthusiast and founder of The Reptarium in Michigan, has sadly passed away at the age of 54 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Barczyk, known for his passionate dedication to reptiles and wildlife, had a profound impact on his millions of followers across social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. His passing was announced on Monday by The Reptarium.

Barczyk’s journey in the world of reptiles began to garner attention when he starred on Discovery Channel‘s show Venom Hunters in 2016. He later went on to host a successful YouTube channel which gained over 5.27 million subscribers.

With his love for reptiles, Barczyk established The Reptarium Reptile Zoo and was also in the process of opening the Legasea Aquarium. His extensive collection of over 30,000 snakes ranked among the world’s largest.

Throughout his battle with cancer, Barczyk remained open and shared his journey with his supportive online community. In a heartfelt video shared in April 2023, he expressed his gratitude to his followers for changing his life and described his ongoing fight against the disease.

In the same video, Barczyk highlighted his joy and fulfillment in life and expressed his hopes that his legacy would continue to inspire millions of people who love animals. He concluded by thanking his loved ones and encouraging his followers to continue inspiring others.

The Reptarium’s statement acknowledged the immense void left by Barczyk’s passing, describing him as an exceptional individual and a visionary mentor. His work in the field of reptiles and wildlife education had an immeasurable impact on the hearts and minds of many around the world.

Brian Barczyk is survived by his wife of 35 years, Lori, and their two children, Noah and Jade.

The Reptarium in Utica, Michigan, established by Barczyk, will continue his legacy, offering a place for reptile enthusiasts to appreciate and learn about these fascinating creatures.