Dawn Brancheau became close to Tilikum, a whale
Dawn Brancheau has spent the most of her life interacting with animals. That’s why many people were unsurprised when the orcas turned out to be her companions rather than the animals she worked with and trained. Dawn developed a special bond with Tilikum, a male orca who had been in captivity since 1983 and with SeaWorld since 1992. The pair spent a lot of time working together and performing in shows at SeaWorld, and they appeared to be quite the team. According to John Hargrove, a senior trainer at the theme park chain, Dawn and Tilikum have a “great relationship.” In fact, John told The Sun that he feels Tilikum has always been concerned about Dawn.
Dawn Brancheau became close to Tilikum, a whale.
The day Dawn Brancheau died was meant to be normal
Dawn Brancheau’s day at work on February 24, 2010 was meant to be like any other. She came at work and immediately began preparing for another show with Tilikum, as she had done so many times before. No one could have predicted that Dawn would be killed by an orca by the end of the day. Dawn was performing as part of the Dine with Shamu series when the incident occurred. Despite the fact that the orca is no longer alive, SeaWorld continues to utilize the whale’s name for many of its attractions and events. This time, the orca people got to witness Tilikum, the now-famous whale, while they ate their lunch.
The day Dawn Brancheau died was meant to be normal.
