Late King of Pop Michael Jackson’s chimpanzee Bubbles has now turned 42, and is enjoying ‘peaceful days lounging in the Florida sun’ at a special sanctuary for apes
Michael Jackson’s chimpanzee Bubbles has turned 42.
The chimp became one of the world’s most famous pets when he was adopted by the late King of Pop back in the early 80s. The pampered primate lived a luxurious life at Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, where he slept in his own crib.
He attended glitzy showbiz events, and was once photographed sporting a suave tuxedo at the 1994 MTV Movie Awards. Bubbles also got to see some of the world when he travelled with the singer – even joining him for tea with the mayor of Osaka during the Bad tour.
Now, 16 years after the Dirty Diana star died, the chimp is living out his days at a sanctuary in Florida. The Center For Great Apes recently shared a snap of Bubbles to mark both his 42nd birthday and his 20th anniversary at the facility.
“Today, we’re celebrating 20 years since Bubbles arrived at the Center for Great Apes in 2005 – and since we don’t know his exact birthdate, we’re also celebrating his 42nd birthday today!” the post on Instagram said.
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“While Bubbles may be our most famous resident, he’s spent the past two decades enjoying the simple joys of being a chimpanzee – climbing, foraging, and spending time with his chimpanzee friends. Born in a biomedical lab and raised in the entertainment industry, he was once a global sensation, appearing in music videos, TV shows, and even traveling internationally.
“But life in the spotlight isn’t suited for chimpanzees, and when he became too strong to be around people, he was retired from show business.” The post said that the chimp had “truly thrived” at the sanctuary.
“He enjoys peaceful days lounging in the Florida sun, expressing his artistic side through painting, and relaxing in his favourite spots,” it said. “At 42, he’s a dignified and gentle presence in his group, known for his calm nature and love of enrichment activities.”
“A huge thank you to Michael Jackson’s Estate, which has generously continued to support Bubbles’ care over the years.” the message continued. “And to all our supporters – you help make it possible for Bubbles and so many others to live the life they deserve.”
Bubbles is thought to have spent several years with the pop star, and they were often snapped out together, with Jackson proudly carrying his pet. At the time, it was reported that the Main In The Mirror singer could use a form of sign language to communicate with his pet.
However, as Bubbles grew up and became a strong adult weighing several stone, it started to be trickier keeping him at home and he went to live with a trainer. In 2005, he was moved to the Center For Great Apes and he has been there ever since.
Jackson died in 2009 aged 50, following an overdose of the anaesthetic propofol.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
