Sphen, one half of the world’s most famous gay gentoo penguin couple, has died aged 11. The smitten bird declared his love for his partner Magic by gifting him a special stone. From there, their relationship blossomed and they rose to fame in 2018 when the couple’s relationship made headlines around the world. Dubbed “the penguin power couple”, the adorable and loyal duo have been together ever since – celebrating six years together and successfully adopting and raising two chicks – Sphengic (Lara) in 2018 and Clancy in 2020. Sphen and Magic are more than just a beautiful love story – their impact around the world as a symbol of equality has been enormous. They inspired a carnival float, were included in the New South Wales school curriculum and even featured in the Netflix series Atypical. Sphen and Magic’s fame has enabled the aquarium to spread important messages on conservation, plastic pollution, global warming and protecting wild penguins. Sea Life Sydney Aquarium General Manager Richard Dilly said: “The loss of Sphen is heartbreaking for the penguin colony, the team and everyone who was inspired or positively impacted by Sphen and Magic’s story.” Sphen and Magic shared a bond that most other penguin pairs did not – they could even be found together outside of breeding season, which is unique for gentoo penguins. Heartbreakingly, Richard added: “The team’s focus now is on Magic, who will soon be preparing for his first breeding season without Sphen.”