10 Famous Monkeys in Film and Television

10 Famous Monkeys in Film and Television

Monkeys have an enduring allure in film and television, captivating audiences with their intelligence, charisma, and, at times, undeniable cuteness. These simian stars have etched their names in the annals of entertainment history, from classic black-and-white films to modern blockbusters and beloved TV shows. Cheetah, Tarzan’s loyal companion in numerous jungle adventures, is perhaps the most iconic of them all. Then there’s King Kong, the colossal ape who has captivated audiences since his debut in 1933.

Clyde, the endearing orangutan from “Every Which Way But Loose,” became a witty sidekick to Clint Eastwood’s character, while the mischievous capuchin monkey Marcel, aka Katie, brought laughter and chaos to the hit television show “Friends.” These famous monkeys have swung, climbed, and charmed their way into our hearts in comedies, action-adventures, and heartwarming tales, forever etching their place in cinematic and television history.

1. Cheetah

NBC Television, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The cheetah is perhaps one of the most famous movie monkeys, having appeared in several Tarzan films during the 1930s and 1940s. Cheetah was a chimp known for its lively and comical performances alongside Tarzan, the iconic jungle hero played by actors such as Johnny Weissmuller.

Cheetah, Tarzan’s loyal animal companion, brought humor and heart to the films, endearing itself to audiences all over the world. Cheetah’s antics and interactions with Tarzan and other characters became a trademark of the Tarzan series, cementing Cheetah’s place in the annals of cinema’s animal stars.

2. King Kong

Although not a real monkey, King Kong is an iconic giant ape that has captured audiences’ imaginations since its debut in the 1933 original classic film. King Kong is one of cinema’s most enduring and legendary creatures, created through stop-motion animation and groundbreaking special effects of the time. The plot usually revolves around Kong’s capture and display in a major city, which often results in chaos and destruction as he attempts to escape.

King Kong has been revisited in several remakes and adaptations, each showcasing advances in cinematic technology. Kong has become a symbol of nature’s wild and untamable aspects, and his tragic portrayal as a misunderstood beast has won audiences’ sympathy. Its presence on screen remains a powerful and unforgettable force in the world of film, whether on Skull Island or in the heart of New York City.

3. Clyde (Every Which Way But Loose)

Canadian Film Centre from Toronto, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Clyde was the scene-stealing orangutan co-star in Clint Eastwood’s “Every Which Way But Loose” films. These action-comedy films released in 1978 and 1980, starred Eastwood as Philo Beddoe, a lovable, tough-as-nails trucker and bare-knuckle brawler, and Clyde as his loyal and mischievous simian companion.

Clyde’s character was known for his practical jokes, beer-drinking abilities, and exceptional driving abilities. The films depicted their exploits, which frequently included brawls, car chases, and a sense of humor. Clyde’s charismatic presence and unique camaraderie with Eastwood made him a beloved character, adding a delightful touch to these outlandish buddy comedies.

4. Jack the Baboon (The Pirates of the Caribbean series)

Jack the Baboon was a memorable character in the Pirates of the Caribbean film series. Jack appeared frequently throughout the franchise as the pet of the cunning and treacherous Captain Hector Barbossa, causing mischief and adding a sense of humor to the high-seas adventures.

Jack’s antics provided comic relief amid the swashbuckling action and supernatural elements of the films, thanks to his distinctive hat and penchant for stealing. He became a beloved sidekick to Captain Barbossa, and his presence contributed to the films’ quirky and unpredictable nature, further endearing audiences to this unique and mischievous baboon.

5. Marcel (Friends)

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels

Marcel is Ross Geller’s pet white-headed capuchin monkey on the hit television show “Friends.” Marcel, who first appears in the first season, becomes Ross’s close companion and a recurring character throughout the series. Ross raised Marcel and has an affectionate relationship with him.

Marcel’s antics and interactions with his friends create numerous comedic moments, such as his obsession with pushing buttons and his love of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” Marcel’s presence on the show adds a distinct and endearing element, making him an unforgettable and beloved character among “Friends” fans, as well as a symbol of Ross’s quirky and endearing personality.

6. Dunston (Dunston Checks In)

In the comedy film “Dunston Checks In,” Sam, a young orangutan, plays Dunston, a mischievous and cunning orangutan. The plot revolves around Dunston’s adventures in an opulent hotel, where he seeks refuge after fleeing a cruel animal thief. Dunston’s playful and chaotic nature leads to a series of comical mishaps and unexpected encounters once inside the hotel, much to the chagrin of the hotel staff. As a young boy befriends Dunston and helps protect him from the thief, the film explores themes of friendship and compassion. Dunston’s antics, combined with the heartwarming storyline, make for an enjoyable family comedy.

7. Crystal (Night at the Museum)

Keith McDuffee from Northborough, MA, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Crystal, a talented capuchin monkey, played the character Dexter in the “Night at the Museum” film series, who became a delightful and memorable presence. Dexter plays an important role in guarding the exhibits that come to life at night in the museum as the mischievous and resourceful companion to night guard Larry Daley, played by Ben Stiller.

Crystal’s antics and clever interactions with the various historical and iconic characters contributed significantly to the film’s comedy and charm. Her expressive and dynamic performances added an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the museum’s whimsical and family-friendly adventures.

8. Caesar (Planet of the Apes series)

Caesar is a fictional chimp who appears in the rebooted “Planet of the Apes” film series, which includes films such as “Rise of the Planet of the Apes,” “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” and “War for the Planet of the Apes.” He is a highly intelligent ape who develops human-like cognition as a result of an experimental drug.

He rises to the leadership of a growing community of genetically advanced apes playing a critical role in their struggle for freedom and survival. Caesar’s character delves into themes such as intelligence, ethics, and the consequences of scientific experimentation, making him a compelling and complex character in the franchise.

9. Bonzo (Bedtime for Bonzo)

Universal Pictures, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In the 1951 comedy film “Bedtime for Bonzo,” a young Ronald Reagan co-starred with a chimp named Bonzo. The plot revolves around a psychology professor (played by Reagan) who conducts an unusual experiment to demonstrate that a good upbringing can overcome inherited traits. He treats Bonzo, a mischievous and playful chimp like a human child.

The film is a lighthearted look at nature vs. nurture and the hilarity that ensues when dealing with a mischievous chimp in a human environment. “Bedtime for Bonzo” is remembered for its amusing premise and for starring a young Ronald Reagan before his political career.

10. Amy (Congo)

In the film adaptation of Michael Crichton’s novel “Congo,” a gray gorilla named Amy plays a pivotal and enthralling role. What distinguishes Amy is her extraordinary ability to communicate with humans through sign language which she learned after years of training with her caregiver Dr. Peter Elliott, played by Dylan Walsh. Amy’s sign language skills are not only endearing but also crucial to the plot.

She joins an expedition to the perilous African jungles in search of a lost city and its hidden treasure. Amy’s intelligence, resourcefulness, and emotional bond with Dr. Elliott and other characters aid in guiding and protecting the group, making her a cherished and vital member of the adventure. Amy’s character exemplifies the possibility of interspecies communication and adds depth and heart to the story of “Congo.”

Monkeys have made an indelible mark on the worlds of film and television, enthralling audiences with their charm, humor, and, on occasion heroics. From the iconic King Kong to the mischievous Marcel in “Friends” and the unforgettable Clyde in “Every Which Way But Loose,” these famous monkeys have added new dimensions to storytelling, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.