By admin 
The highly anticipated biopic "Michael" is set to offer audiences a profound glimpse into a lesser-explored facet of the King of Pop’s life: his deep and abiding love for animals. The film prominently features several of the exotic creatures that were once cherished companions to Michael Jackson during his formative years at his family’s estate in Encino, California. Among these are a llama, a giraffe, and a python, but it is arguably his chimpanzee, Bubbles, who commands the most significant attention, both in Jackson’s life and within the narrative of the movie.
The cinematic portrayal of Bubbles begins with his arrival, a moment met with a mixture of awe and outright horror by Jackson’s family. His mother, Katherine, voiced her apprehension, questioning her son’s decision to bring a chimpanzee into their suburban San Fernando Valley home, reminding him of their wild nature. This early scene sets the stage for the complex relationship Jackson would foster with his simian friend, a bond that transcended typical pet ownership.
Director Antoine Fuqua opted for cutting-edge CGI technology to bring Bubbles, as well as the llama, giraffe, and python, to life on screen. This decision not only allowed for a safer and more controlled production but also addressed concerns raised by animal welfare organizations. Lionsgate, the studio behind the film, released an exclusive statement to Variety via PETA, detailing their "continuing constructive dialogue" with the organization regarding the portrayal of Bubbles as a pet. The studio emphasized that the depiction is "simply based on historical fact and is not intended to be an endorsement of keeping chimpanzees as pets." They further clarified that the real Bubbles has been living a "peaceful life at the Center for Great Apes sanctuary for more than 20 years."
Michael Jackson rescued Bubbles from a research facility in Texas in the early 1980s. The chimpanzee quickly became an integral part of Jackson’s life, accompanying him on tour, attending high-profile events like his lawyer John Branca’s wedding, and even participating in diplomatic visits, such as a memorable tea ceremony with government officials in Japan in 1987. These anecdotes highlight the extraordinary closeness of their bond and Jackson’s unique way of integrating his beloved pet into every aspect of his existence.
The chimpanzee’s living arrangements evolved as he grew. Initially, Bubbles resided at Jackson’s iconic Neverland Ranch, even sleeping in a crib in the King of Pop’s own bedroom. As Bubbles matured and his behavior became more challenging, he was sent to an animal trainer for a period. Ultimately, in 2005, at the age of 22, Bubbles found his permanent home at the Center for Great Apes, a sanctuary located in Wauchula, Florida. Today, at 43 years old, Bubbles is considered an elderly primate.
PETA’s director of animals in film and television, Lauren Thomasson, lauded the studio’s decision to utilize CGI. "So much more is known today about what chimpanzees and monkeys need to thrive, including freedom and the companionship of their peers, making film sets and human homes unacceptable for their wellbeing," Thomasson stated. She continued, "PETA praises Lionsgate’s decision not to use real animals and urges audiences to never buy primates from breeders or keep them as pets." This statement underscores the shift in understanding and ethical considerations surrounding the keeping of exotic animals, particularly primates, as pets.
Patti Ragan, the founding director of the Center for Great Apes, shared poignant insights into Bubbles’ current life and his enduring connection with Michael Jackson. Ragan revealed that Jackson was making plans to visit Bubbles at the sanctuary at the time of his untimely death in 2009. Furthermore, she confirmed that the Jackson estate continues to provide substantial financial support for Bubbles’ ongoing care, a testament to the lasting impact the chimpanzee had on the artist.
"He’s such a sweet, sweet guy," Ragan affectionately described Bubbles. While many may still picture him as the adorable infant Michael Jackson famously cradled, Ragan explained that Bubbles is now a mature chimpanzee weighing approximately 170 pounds. He lives harmoniously with a group of five other chimpanzees, and the sanctuary is currently facilitating introductions with some younger individuals. Ragan noted that Bubbles played a nurturing role himself, having helped raise two babies when he first arrived at the sanctuary.
Bubbles’ current social circle at the Center for Great Apes includes a significant companion named Oopsy. Oopsy, a 52-year-old chimpanzee, has a unique entertainment pedigree, having served as an understudy on the late 1970s action sitcom "B.J. and The Bear." This connection to the entertainment world, albeit through a different avenue, creates an interesting parallel with Bubbles’ own history.
Despite his advanced age for a chimpanzee, Bubbles remains a cherished resident of the sanctuary. His days are often spent napping, a natural inclination for older primates. "He’s good with the youngsters, but he’s moving a little slower," Ragan observed. "Sometimes it takes him longer to climb ladders, but he eats well." This gentle description paints a picture of a contented elder statesman within the chimpanzee community.
The enduring fascination with Bubbles and his unique relationship with Michael Jackson has not gone unnoticed by Hollywood. A recent report in The New York Times highlighted that a separate biopic focusing specifically on Bubbles, with a script penned by Isaac Adamson, was being pitched in Hollywood. While a direct sequel to "Michael" has not yet been announced, producers have hinted at the possibility of future films that could delve even deeper into Jackson’s profound connection with the animal kingdom. This suggests that the narrative of Jackson’s life, particularly his animal companions, continues to hold significant appeal for audiences and filmmakers alike. The exploration of these relationships offers a more nuanced and compassionate understanding of the global icon, revealing a man who found solace, joy, and a unique form of companionship in the diverse creatures he welcomed into his life. The decision to portray these animals through CGI in "Michael" not only serves the artistic vision of the film but also aligns with contemporary ethical standards for animal welfare in entertainment, ensuring that the legacy of Jackson’s love for animals is presented responsibly and respectfully.