- Primary Subject: Bubbles the Chimpanzee (Michael Jackson’s pet)
- Key Update: Following the 2026 release of the biopic Michael, fans are curious about the latest status of Bubbles.
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: April 27, 2026
- Quick Answer: Yes, Bubbles is alive. At 43, he resides at the Center for Great Apes in Florida, where he serves as a gentle leader to his group.
After watching the new biopic Michael, some fans are wondering whether Bubbles the Chimpanzee is still alive to this day.
The King of Pop's famed chimpanzee pet was a prominent part of the newly released biopic. As long-time fans know (and as the movie depicted), Michael Jackson and Bubbles have a friendship that became part of pop culture itself, as Bubbles would accompany the singer at various public events. He is also considered to be a major part of Jackson's mythology.
With the release of the movie, there is now a renewed interest in the latest status of Bubbles.
Where is Bubbles the Chimpanzee Today?
According to Variety, Bubbles is currently residing at the Center for Great Apes, a sanctuary in Wauchula, Florida. He has been living there since 2005, after he was relocated by Jackson due to safety concerns.
He is now 43 years old, which is considered to be an old age for a chimpanzee. He is being well-taken care of by the facility's caretakers.
Patti Ragan, the founding director of the Center for Great Apes, revealed that Jackson was making arrangements to visit Bubbles shortly before he died in 2009. To this day, the Jackson estate continues to provide the necessary financial support for the chimpanzee's lifelong care and well-being.
Speaking with the outlet, Ragan emphasized that Bubbles has changed significantly from the "cute baby" image the public remembers. Now a mature adult weighing approximately 170 pounds, he has shed the small, pink-faced look of his youth.
He currently resides with a group of five other chimpanzees and has taken on a paternal role, having helped raise two infants in the past and currently assisting with the integration of several new youngsters.
Describing him as an exceptionally gentle and "sweet guy," Ragan noted that Bubbles remains a central figure at the sanctuary. Though he is no longer the tiny companion seen in old photographs, he has thrived in his environment, transitioning successfully from a famous pet to a respected member of his primate social group.
Now that he is 43 years old, Bubbles has reached his senior years as a primate and now spends a significant portion of his day resting. Ragan explained that while he remains patient and gentle with the younger chimps, his pace has naturally slowed down with age. Although he may take a bit more time than he used to when climbing ladders, he still maintains a healthy appetite and a positive temperament.
What is Michael About?
Michael is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.
Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before.
The main cast includes Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Miles Teller, Nia Long, Laura Harrier, and Juliano Krue Valdi. Antoine Fuqua directed the film, while John Logan wrote the script. The Jackson estate is involved in the production.
The film is currently showing in theaters worldwide. It is also available on IMAX and other premium formats.
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