Once the hard-partying companion to the King of Pop, Bubbles the chimpanzee now leads a life of serene retirement far from the spotlight. The famous primate, who turns 43 this April, resides at the Center for Great Apes in Wauchula, Florida, where his days are filled with painting, afternoon naps, and early nights.
From Global Glamour to Sanctuary Serenity
Bubbles was acquired by Michael Jackson in 1983 when he was just eight months old. He lived an extraordinary life, sleeping in a crib in the singer's room, wearing human clothes, and travelling the world. He joined Jackson on tour in Japan and even appeared in his music videos. His celebrity status led to legendary encounters, including a raucous hotel party with Jon Bon Jovi in Tokyo during the 1980s, where the chimp reportedly "partied like a rock star" and almost got the band ejected.
However, life as a human companion was not sustainable. As Bubbles grew older, he began to show aggression. Despite consultations with famed primatologist Jane Goodall, Jackson ultimately had to rehome him. Bubbles has been at the Florida sanctuary since 2005, after being deemed unsuitable for life around people. His care is funded by the Michael Jackson Estate, with annual costs estimated at around $30,000 per chimp.
A Day in the Life of a Retired Star
According to sanctuary founder Patti Ragan, Bubbles is "aging gracefully." His routine is a far cry from his jet-setting past. He enjoys being groomed by chimp friends Oopsie and Kodua in the mornings, strolls along the sanctuary's aerial trails, and shares meals with his long-time chimpanzee family. Weighing 185lb, he is the calm leader of his group.
His favourite pastimes include watching Disney's Chimpanzee movie and painting. Described as having a "calm and artistic presence," Bubbles creates colourful works of art and only hands over the canvas when he feels a piece is truly finished. "His expressive style sometimes goes beyond the borders!" the centre notes.
Legacy and Upcoming Biopic Appearance
Bubbles shares his retirement home with other former celebrity chimps, including Ripley from Ace Ventura and BamBam from Nurse Precious. While rumours of a $2 million inheritance from Jackson's will were debunked by Ragan in 2019, his future is secure. Although he won't be making a comeback, Bubbles will be featured in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, set for release in April, with actress Lilly Colucci listed to portray him.
From causing chaos with Bon Jovi to inspiring a Jeff Koons sculpture, Bubbles has lived a life few animals ever have. Now, in his fifth decade, the chimp who is roughly 50 in human years has found peace, trading late-night parties for the simple pleasure of an early night in his nest, made faithfully by 6pm.
