1. Michael Jackson’s chimpanzee
When it comes to the lifestyles of the rich and the famous, unexpected surprises are always around the corner. But when Michael Jackson, at the pinnacle of his fame, took a pet chimpanzee, it took the world by storm. His name was Bubbles, the charismatic chimp who not only traveled the globe alongside the pop sensation but also starred in music videos with the King of Pop. In a unique period in pop music history, Bubbles became the lovable mascot during MJ’s renowned Bad tour in 1987. However, like all good things, their ‘friendship’ eventually saw an end, though Bubbles remained Jackson’s beloved pet for several years thereafter.
Bubbles, reportedly born in a Texas-based research facility in 1983, became Michael’s pet under somewhat mysterious circumstances. Some say Jackson purchased him directly from the facility when he was just eight months old; others claim he was bought from a Hollywood animal trainer for a staggering $65,000. Regardless of the origin story, one fact remained undeniable – Michael and Bubbles were inseparable. Living initially in Jackson’s LA family home and later in Neverland, Bubbles lived a life of sheer luxury. He shared sweets with MJ while watching movies in their home cinema and even learned to perform the iconic ‘Moonwalk’.
However, it wasn’t all fun and games for the dynamic duo. As Bubbles grew older, and inevitably larger, his presence began to create logistical issues. Michael noted that Bubbles had become more “pugnacious”, and there were whispers of potential mistreatment. Jane Goodall, the world’s leading primatologist, voiced concerns about Bubbles’ welfare. When Jackson welcomed his newborn son Prince Michael II, Bubbles was relocated to the ranch of California trainer Bob Dunn for safety concerns in 2003. Today, at the respectable age of 39, Bubbles lives at the Centre for Great Apes in Wauchula, Florida, enjoying a serene lifestyle of painting and flute-listening. Even though their paths diverged, Michael’s legacy continues to support Bubbles, with his estate covering the annual care costs since Jackson’s passing.
