THE star of the 'Dolphin Tale' movies has died after she suffered suspected heart failure

Winter – a 16-year-old female bottlenose dolphin – lost her tail when she was just two months old and was cared for at The Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Florida for her entire life.

Winter's tail became entangled in a crab trap near Cape Canaveral, which forced its amputation. 

“While we are heartbroken by Winter’s death, we are comforted knowing that our team did everything possible to give her the best chance at survival,” said vet Shelly Marquardt.

Dr Marquardt said the aquarium worked with specialists and marine mammal experts from around the country.

But Winter, who was as in critical condition and declining, died while being held by caregivers.

Winter was treated by a team of 15 vets and technicians and at this stage it's believed the cause of death was heart failure, TMZ reports.

The statement said the aquarium would remain closed on Friday to provide staff time to grieve.

It had earlier said a Friday closure would allow workers to focus on the dolphin’s medical care with plans to reopen Saturday.

'Dolphin Tale' was released in 2011, chronicled Winter’s recovery and the unprecedented, lengthy effort to fit her with a prosthetic tail.

The film, starring Harry Connick Jr., Ashley Judd, Kris Kristofferson, Morgan Freeman and Nathan Gamble, was largely shot at the Clearwater aquarium and surrounding Tampa Bay locations.

Winter’s story of rehabilitation has become an inspiration for disabled people around the world.

The aquarium has received thousands of messages of support since Winter’s illness became known.

“Many are inspired by her resiliency and this amazing response reminds us of how deeply she has affected millions, including so many on their own health journey,” the aquarium statement said.

The sequel 'Dolphin Tale 2' was released three years later starring Winter and Hope, another rescued dolphin cared for by the Clearwater aquarium.

Bottlenose dolphins can live up to 60 years and are considered one of the most intelligent of all animal species.

Winter and Hope became the most famous residents of the Clearwater aquarium, which also operates sea turtle and manatee rescue programs.

More to follow…

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