The Most Famous Monkeys in Hollywood – From Marcel in Friends to King Kong, These Primates Made It Big

The Most Famous Monkeys in Hollywood – From Marcel in Friends to King Kong, These Primates Made It Big

Monkeys and apes have had a long, star-studded history in Hollywood, becoming some of the most memorable and beloved characters in film and television. From heartwarming companions to terrifying giants, these primates have made their mark on the big screen. Let’s take a look at some of the most famous monkeys to ever grace the silver screen.

First on the list: King Kong, the original superstar. Introduced in the classic 1933 film King Kong, this towering gorilla has since become a cultural icon. Whether you know him as the misunderstood monster terrorizing New York or as the tragic hero fighting to survive in a world that doesn’t understand him, King Kong is the quintessential Hollywood ape. His influence has spanned decades, with numerous remakes and reboots, including the 2005 version directed by Peter Jackson and the recent appearances in the MonsterVerse franchise. King Kong is undoubtedly the most famous and enduring ape in cinematic history.

Next up is Marcel from Friends. Who could forget Ross’s lovable pet capuchin monkey? Marcel became an unexpected fan favorite during the early seasons of the show. While his role was short-lived, Marcel’s antics, adorable face, and eventual heartbreaking departure made him an unforgettable character. His bond with Ross, and the subsequent storyline where Marcel was sent to a sanctuary in Florida, left viewers with mixed emotions. Marcel’s cameo in Friends cemented his place as one of TV’s most iconic monkeys.

Then there’s Cheetah from the Tarzan films. Cheetah, a chimpanzee, became an integral part of the Tarzan franchise, making appearances in many of the films from the 1930s to the 1960s. Although many chimps played the role of Tarzan’s trusty sidekick over the years, Cheetah stood out for his personality and the chemistry he shared with the legendary Johnny Weissmuller, who played Tarzan. Cheetah remains a symbol of the carefree jungle spirit that defined those classic adventure films.

Planet of the Apes—the entire franchise—wouldn’t be what it is without Caesar, the intelligent and rebellious ape who rises to power and leads the fight for ape equality. Played by Andy Serkis through groundbreaking motion capture technology, Caesar is the star of the 2010s trilogy beginning with Rise of the Planet of the Apes. His journey from a captive animal to a revolutionary leader made him one of the most complex and well-loved primate characters in modern cinema.

Let’s not forget Rafiki from The Lion King. While not technically a monkey (he’s a baboon), Rafiki holds a special place in the hearts of Disney fans. This wise, quirky character, who serves as a spiritual guide to Simba, was an essential part of the movie’s magic. Rafiki’s mystical wisdom and comic relief made him a standout character in a film full of memorable animals.

Donkey Kong, from video games to film adaptations, deserves a mention as well. While the character originated in the Donkey Kong arcade game in the early ‘80s, the ape has become a central figure in Nintendo’s universe, appearing in numerous video games, animated series, and even a few films. He’s a playful, strong, and somewhat grumpy gorilla who’s become one of the most iconic video game characters, making his way from pixels to Hollywood.

And let’s not overlook The Monkey from Outbreak. Played by a macaque, this character is central to the outbreak of a deadly virus in the 1995 thriller. While not a star in the traditional sense, the macaque’s role in the film is pivotal, and the emotional weight of his journey highlights how animals in Hollywood sometimes are used to symbolize greater human struggles, even in the most harrowing situations.

Finally, we have Zira and Cornelius from the original Planet of the Apes series. These two intelligent, compassionate apes challenged societal norms and fought for the survival of their species. Zira, played by Kim Hunter, and Cornelius, played by Roddy McDowall, not only set the stage for Caesar but also laid the groundwork for the entire franchise’s exploration of apes as sentient beings with complex social structures.

Whether they’re starring in heartwarming family films, action-packed adventures, or profound philosophical dramas, monkeys and apes have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Their mix of humor, intelligence, and sometimes tragic flaws makes them some of the most unforgettable characters in Hollywood history. So the next time you see a primate on screen, remember: they’re not just animals—they’re bona fide movie stars.

 

 

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