World's oldest horse, once owned by Hollywood legend Burt Reynolds, dies at age 40
A horse once owned by Hollywood legend Burt Reynolds earned the title of oldest living horse after reaching his 40th birthday.
Tragically, Mokie the Arabian horse died not long after his record was verified.
Mokie, originally named Mohawk, was born on Reynolds’ farm on 21 February 1985 and was bred to be the Smokey and the Bandit star’s personal horse.
He lived there until 1992 when he was sold to a woman named Beverly.
With Beverly in 1992
He spent his golden years with Arica Dzama (USA) in Jupiter, Florida, where he was verified to be an impressive 40 years 83 days old on 14 May.
That’s roughly equivalent to a human living to 115, with the average lifespan of a horse lasting around 25-30 years.
With Arica's kids in 2021
Tragically, Mokie passed away on 3 June.
“Every day that we had with Mokie was a special day,” Arica said. “He’s missed dearly.”
On his 36th birthday in 2021
Arica started off looking after Mokie while his previous owner Beverly was out of town, and took him in permanently when she moved away.
He became a therapy horse, helping people going through some of the darkest times of their lives.
Mokie in 2024
Arica said: “Mokie was an old man when he came to me. He liked eating, getting brushed, he liked to give kisses.
“When he was with Beverly she would ride him, she enjoyed many years riding all over the country with him.”
She added: “Mokie taught me how to love a horse that doesn’t give back in a riding form. Watching what a horse can do with just their magic.
With Beverly and Arica in 2025
“I wish he could be here to receive his title, I wanted that so badly for him, so to say that Mokie is being recognized and had this amazing accomplishment in his life is something I will always cherish.
“I look forward to continuing his legacy. He was just a really special guy, he’s missed dearly.”