Where is Bubbles the chimpanzee now following Michael Jackson’s passing?

SHAH ALAM – The long-awaited biographical film Michael, about pop icon Michael Jackson, has officially hit cinemas, drawing attention not only for its portrayal of the singer’s life but also for its decision to depict his famous chimpanzee companion, Bubbles, using Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI) instead of a real animal.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the biopic has sparked renewed global interest in Jackson’s life and legacy. The film stars Jaafar Jackson, the late singer’s nephew, in the titular role, alongside Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson.

The production revisits key moments of Jackson’s rise to superstardom, including his personal life and relationships that shaped public perception of the global music icon.

One of the film’s most talked-about creative decisions is the use of CGI to portray Bubbles, Jackson’s well-known chimpanzee companion. Fuqua also extended this approach to other animals featured in the film, including a llama, giraffe and python.

According to the production team, the decision was made following discussions with animal welfare groups to ensure ethical and responsible filmmaking practices.

“We have had continuing constructive dialogue with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) about the portrayal of Bubbles the chimpanzee as a pet.

“This portrayal is simply based on historical fact and is not intended to be an endorsement of keeping chimpanzees as pets,” Lionsgate said in an exclusive statement released to Variety through Peta.

The real Bubbles is currently living at the Center for Great Apes, a sanctuary that provides lifelong care for orangutans and chimpanzees rescued from entertainment, research and private ownership.

His care is also reportedly supported by funding from Michael Jackson Estate, ensuring his long-term welfare.

According to the studio, Bubbles has been residing at the facility for more than two decades, where he is kept in a protected environment away from public view.

Once frequently photographed with Michael Jackson during the height of his fame in the 1980s, Bubbles has since lived out of the spotlight, now in what the sanctuary describes as a peaceful, long-term care setting.

The renewed attention comes as the film sparks broader discussion about how real-life relationships in Jackson’s life are portrayed on screen, particularly his controversial decision to keep exotic animals at the peak of his fame.

The CGI portrayal has drawn mixed reactions online, with some praising the ethical choice to avoid using a real chimpanzee, while others noting that Bubbles remains an enduring symbol of Jackson’s eccentric and highly publicised lifestyle.

Now largely removed from public life, Bubbles remains one of the most recognisable animal figures linked to Jackson’s legacy, decades after their widely publicised companionship.