Wildlife Charity Warns Michael Jackson Biopic Could Drive Exotic Pet Demand Over Chimpanzee Portrayal

A wildlife advocacy group has raised concerns ahead of the release of the upcoming biographical film Michael, warning that its portrayal of a chimpanzee companion could unintentionally encourage demand for exotic pets.

The charity, Humane World for Animals, says the film’s depiction of Michael Jackson’s pet chimpanzee Bubbles as a friendly domestic companion risks creating a misleading impression of primate ownership.

In the film, the chimpanzee is shown living comfortably in a home environment, but the organisation argues this overlooks the complex needs and welfare challenges associated with keeping wild animals in captivity.

Experts at the group stress that chimpanzees are highly intelligent and social animals whose physical and behavioural needs cannot be met in private homes, regardless of how well-intentioned the owner may be.

Audrey Delsink, a senior wildlife director at the organisation, warned that emotional storytelling in films can influence public behaviour and lead to increased demand for exotic species as pets.

She cited past examples where films such as Finding Nemo and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles reportedly contributed to spikes in demand for clownfish and turtles.

The concern centres around Michael Jackson’s well-known pet chimpanzee Bubbles, who has long been a controversial figure in discussions about primate captivity and exotic animal ownership.

The organisation argues that even if animals are portrayed using CGI, audiences may still be influenced by the idea that wild animals can thrive in domestic environments.

As the film’s release approaches, the group is calling on viewers to distinguish between cinematic storytelling and real-world animal welfare realities.