As Michael, the much-awaited biopic on the King of Pop, brings Michael Jackson’s extraordinary life back to the big screen, one familiar face, or rather, one famous chimpanzee, is once again catching attention – Bubbles. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
Portrayed through CGI in the film, Bubbles was one of the most talked-about parts of Michael Jackson’s personal life during the 1980s. Known around the world as the pop icon’s unusual companion, Bubbles became a pop culture phenomenon in his own right. But while the movie revisits his days at Neverland and the Jackson estate, the real Bubbles is very much alive today, living a peaceful life far away from Hollywood spotlight. (Image: Yahoo)
Michael Jackson adopted Bubbles in the early 1980s from a Texas research facility, during the height of his superstardom. At the time, Jackson’s fascination with exotic animals was well documented, and Bubbles quickly became one of the most famous celebrity pets in the world. The chimpanzee often accompanied Jackson in public appearances, photo shoots, and even reportedly spent time around recording sessions. Bubbles was seen as part of Jackson’s larger-than-life lifestyle, which also included unusual pets like giraffes, llamas, and snakes. In Michael, Bubbles’ arrival at the Jackson family home is recreated as one of the memorable glimpses into the singer’s unconventional personal world. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
Bubbles wasn’t just any celebrity pet. He became a media sensation, appearing in tabloids, television coverage, and public discussions about Michael Jackson’s eccentric image. At a time when Jackson’s fame was unmatched, Bubbles symbolized both the star’s love for animals and the surreal lifestyle that fascinated fans globally. Whether sitting beside Michael, travelling, or simply being photographed, Bubbles became inseparable from the King of Pop’s public identity. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
According to Lionsgate, the studio behind Michael, Bubbles is currently 43 years old and has spent more than two decades living at the Center for Great Apes sanctuary in Wauchula, Florida. The sanctuary, which cares for chimpanzees and orangutans, has given Bubbles a stable and peaceful environment far removed from the pressures of celebrity life. The Michael Jackson Estate reportedly continues to support his care. (Image: Center for Great Apes)
Today, Bubbles is described as a calm and respected member of his chimpanzee group. Far from his days of paparazzi and pop stardom, he now enjoys painting. According to the Center for Great Apes, Bubbles loves creating colourful artwork and often spends quiet time with a canvas. Caretakers say he only gives up his artwork when he feels it’s complete, showing surprising patience and personality. (Image: Center for Great Apes)
He’s also known to be playful, sometimes teasing visitors with splashes of water or sand. Though shy, Bubbles reportedly remains social within his chimp community and shares close bonds with fellow chimpanzees. (Image: Center for Great Apes)
