05/03/2026
Bubbles grew up
With the renewed interest in Bubbles following the release of the film, Michael, we want to share a little about where he is today.
At 43 years old, Bubbles is considered an elder chimpanzee and has called the Center for Great Apes home for the past 21 years.
Bubbles is a bright, sensitive, and curious chimpanzee with a gentle nature and a strong personality of his own. Like many elder chimps, he enjoys the comfort of his daily routines and the company of his longtime chimpanzee companions. He can often be found relaxing with his social group, exploring his habitat, foraging for treats, or simply watching the world around him with curiosity.
For much of his early life, Bubbles lived in the public eye. But for the last two decades, his life has been about something very important: companionship, stability, the chance to live and interact with his chimpanzee social group, and making choices about how he spends his days.
Our mission at the Center for Great Apes is to provide dignified retirement for chimpanzees and orangutans who spent their early years in the spotlight.
For a high-profile resident like Bubbles, the transition from the world of entertainment to a life of autonomy and social connection with his own species is a powerful testament to the sanctuary's impact. It’s a reminder that peace, security, and quality of life for a chimpanzee is also the presence of a troop, the freedom to climb, and the right to simply be.
That’s what sanctuary is all about—giving chimpanzees like Bubbles the opportunity to just be chimpanzees.
We’re honored to provide him with the lifelong care, companionship, and home he deserves.
