Nearly two decades after Michael Jackson’s death, his former pet chimpanzee, Bubbles, has found a home at the Center for Great Apes in Wauchula, Florida. The 41-year-old chimp now enjoys freedom in the luxury sanctuary alongside fellow chimps Oopsie, Boma, Ripley, Kodua, and Stryker.
According to center director Patti Ragan, Bubbles is quite a happy creature and loves tunnels, building nests under a tree, painting, and his midday naps. He is also friendly with other animals and visitors, including the vet and sanctuary staff that tend to him.
Michael Jackson’s estate is in charge of Bubbles’ welfare
Bubbles has had a history with the late Pop legend since he was purchased from a Texas research facility in the ‘80s. The 180-pound chimp reportedly incurs up to $27,000 in upkeep costs from Jackson’s estate every year, and the singer’s family endeavors to visit from time to time. He also enjoys preferential treatment from Jackson’s fans, who send in treats and blankets often.
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The sanctuary plays Jackson’s music and videos for Bubbles and his buddies. However, Bubbles is said to be unfazed by his former owner’s songs, leading to speculations that he may have forgotten older memories due to his old age, as he was only a toddler when MJ took him in.
As Bubbles progressed into adulthood, Jackson had to give him away to a trainer in 2003 before he was transferred to the Center For Great Apes in 2005. The music legend died four years later from propofol overdose, with his 15th death anniversary taking place this week; however, the sanctuary revealed they have no plans to mark it.
Bubbles and MJ had a close relationship, which was considered bizarre by the public at the time, as the singer would refer to him as his firstborn. They would eat together, go nearly everywhere, including Jackson’s recording studio, and even share a bed on several occasions. Interestingly, Bubbles even picked up his owner’s dance moves and appeared in some of his music videos.