The King of Pop and His Companion: New ‘Michael’ Trailer Spotlights Bubbles as Chimp Enters His 43rd Year
The King of Pop and His Companion: New ‘Michael’ Trailer Spotlights Bubbles as Chimp Enters His 43rd Year
CULVER CITY, CA — The latest trailer for the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has arrived with a nostalgic surprise for longtime fans: the appearance of Bubbles, the King of Pop's most famous companion.
The two-minute teaser, which debuted Monday, February 2, offers a sweeping look at the film directed by Antoine Fuqua. While the spotlight is firmly on Jaafar Jackson’s uncanny transformation into his late uncle, several frames capture the "Bad" era’s most recognizable duo, recreating iconic moments of Jackson and Bubbles in matching outfits.
A Star-Studded Legacy
The biopic, scheduled for a global theatrical release on 24th April 2026, aims to humanize the global icon through the eyes of those closest to him. The film features Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, with Miles Teller portraying the estate's long-time lawyer John Branca.
The inclusion of Bubbles in the film serves as a poignant reminder of Jackson's eccentricity and his deep bond with animals. However, while the on-screen Bubbles is a product of high-end CGI and practical effects, the real-life primate is currently making headlines of his own.
Bubbles at 42: A Florida Retirement
While the movie looks back at the 1980s, the real Bubbles is living a remarkably different life far from the flashbulbs. Now 42 years old, Bubbles has spent the last two decades at the Center for Great Apes in Wauchula, Florida. The same sanctuary he has called home since March 2005.
Staff at the sanctuary report that Bubbles is "thriving" as an elder primate. Far from the moonwalking days of his youth, his current routine is one of quiet dignity:
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The Alpha Presence: Standing 4.5 feet tall and weighing 185 pounds, Bubbles is described as a "dignified and gentle" leader within his social group.
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Artistic Pursuits: Much like his former owner, Bubbles has an artistic side, frequently creating colorful paintings that are occasionally sold to raise funds for the sanctuary.
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Early to Bed: Unlike the "party animal" reputation of his youth, caregivers note that Bubbles is often tucked away in his nest by 6:00 PM.
Estate Support and Lifespan
Despite common misconceptions, Bubbles was not left a multi-million dollar inheritance in Jackson’s will. However, the Michael Jackson Estate has continued to fulfill the singer's wishes by generously funding the chimp’s annual care, which costs roughly $30,000 per year.
With chimpanzees in captivity known to live between 50 and 60 years, Bubbles likely has many peaceful years ahead of him. Sanctuary founder Patti Ragan has noted that while he is aware of the music played at the facility, he doesn't seem to show a particular preference for Michael’s hits over any other genre—preferring the simple joys of climbing, napping, and hanging out with his best friend, Riley.
As Jaafar Jackson brings the 1980s version of the King of Pop to life this April, the real Bubbles will be watching from the Florida sunshine, a living bridge to one of the most storied eras in music history.
