Bubbles, the iconic chimpanzee once owned by pop superstar Michael Jackson, currently resides at the Center for Great Apes in Florida. This sanctuary has been his home since 2005, allowing him to live in a more suitable environment for his needs, away from the pressures of fame and constant public scrutiny.
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Michael Jackson’s bond with Bubbles began in the 1980s when animal trainer Bob Dunn sourced the baby chimpanzee from a research facility in Texas. For Jackson, Bubbles was more than just a pet; he was regarded as his “first child.” The duo forged a close friendship, spending time together in Jackson’s homes and on global tours. Bubbles became a regular feature in Jackson’s life, accompanying him to various events and even appearing in music videos.
As Bubbles matured, the complexities of keeping a chimpanzee as a domestic pet became apparent. Jackson described Bubbles as “pugnacious” in a 2003 documentary, indicating that the chimp’s growing strength and unpredictable nature made it increasingly difficult to manage. Consequently, Dunn took over Bubbles’ care as he moved into a more suitable living situation.
Throughout his years with Jackson, Bubbles interacted with numerous celebrities. Riley Keough, granddaughter of Elvis Presley, fondly recalled her encounters with the chimp while appearing on a talk show. Actor Jon Bon Jovi shared a light-hearted story from his past, recounting a lively party with Bubbles in a Tokyo hotel. However, not all memories of Bubbles were positive; filmmaker Quincy Jones recounted a time when his daughter Rashida was bitten by the playful chimp during a visit.
After transitioning to life with Dunn, Bubbles ultimately found his permanent home at the Center for Great Apes. The move marked a significant change in his life, especially after Dunn’s retirement from animal training. In the years following the move, Bubbles has enjoyed a peaceful existence surrounded by fellow primates.
At the sanctuary, Bubbles has taken up various activities that nurture his social and creative instincts. According to Patti Ragan, the director of the centre, Bubbles enjoys indulging in sweet potatoes, listening to music, and even painting. In 2017, he showcased his artistic talents at an art show aimed at raising funds for the centre.
Three years after his arrival at the sanctuary, Bubbles continues to thrive. Ragan has described him as a gentle giant, weighing around 170 pounds. It is heartening to know that the estate of Michael Jackson provides ongoing financial support for Bubbles’ care. This ensures he lives a comfortable and fulfilling life among his peers, even playing a role in raising younger chimpanzees.
The legacy of Bubbles has also reached popular culture, as evidenced by the recent biopic titled “Michael,” which features the character based on him. However, the filmmakers opted to employ CGI technology for the portrayal of Bubbles. In a statement, Lionsgate confirmed that discussions with PETA emphasised the importance of realistically representing Bubbles’ historical connection to Jackson while avoiding the notion of endorsing the ownership of chimpanzees as pets.
Over the years, Bubbles’ journey has reflected the compassion and consideration that can be offered to animals. In a world where exotic pets often face dire consequences from their owners, Bubbles has found sanctuary and care tailored to his needs. The care he receives at the Center for Great Apes is a testament to the shifting attitudes towards the welfare of such wildlife, shedding light on the importance of ensuring that these remarkable beings can live fulfilling lives, away from the limelight.