Bubbles is one of the most well-known chimpanzees living at the Center for Great Ape and one of the most beloved by staff and fans alike. Bubbles has lived an extraordinary life. Reportedly born in a biomedical lab, he was hand-raised by a Hollywood animal trainer before becoming the well-known companion of pop icon Michael Jackson. During those early years, Bubbles found himself in the spotlight, appearing in music videos, movies, and even joining Jackson on a promotional tour in Japan at just four years old.
As he grew stronger, Bubbles was no longer suited for life around people and was eventually retired from show business. In 2005, he found a new beginning at the Center for Great Apes, arriving with several other chimpanzees from the entertainment industry.
He's described as a physically imposing adult male, weighing approximately 185 pounds and standing around 4.5 feet tall. Bubbles is a respected leader in his chimpanzee group which includes his closest friends Oopsie, Boma, Kodua, and Stryker. and enjoys painting and listening to flute music. He is also reported to be increasingly camera-shy in his old age. Though shy and private, Bubbles is also playful. He’s been known for gently teasing visitors with a splash of water or a sprinkle of sand, just for fun.
Bubbles especially enjoys painting, often spending quiet time creating colorful works of art. He only hands over the canvas when he’s truly finished, and his expressive style sometimes goes beyond the borders!
Thanks to the continued support from Michael Jackson’s Estate, Bubbles is thriving in his sanctuary home, and he has enjoyed 20 peaceful years of sanctuary life, surrounded by nature, companionship, and loving care.
That chimps life is an animated sitcom...
