He found fame for starring in adverts, his wrestling act and a dramatic escapade in the Scottish Highlands, but he wasn’t your regular TV personality – as he was a grizzly bear. Now, a new documentary from the BBC highlights the unusual life of Hercules the bear.
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Who was Hercules the bear?
Hercules the bear was a trained grizzly bear from Scotland. He became famous for his wrestling act with Andy Robin and later starred in adverts and made appearances on TV around the world.
He was born in captivity at the Highland Wildlife Park in Kingussie in the Scottish Highlands and later bought by Andy and Maggie Robin.
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Did Hercules escape?
Hercules made headline news after escaping in the Outer Hebrides while filming a Kleenex TV advert. He was missing for 24 days and the event attracted worldwide attention. It was noted that he lost 15 stone during this time, leading many to believe that he did not feed on sheep, cattle or other wildlife on the island.
What else is Hercules famous for?
He starred in the James Bond movie Octopussy alongside Roger Moore and featured in the 1997 BBC TV documentary Eyewitness Bear. He also starred in a documentary for Disney.
Away from the screen, he often joined owners Andy and Maggie at the local pub.
How long did he live for?
Hercules died on 4 February 2000 aged 25 – which is around the natural lifespan of a grizzly bear.
Where is he buried?
Hercules is buried in Langass Woods, Isle of North Uist, Scotland, alongside his owner Andy Robins. A statue marks the spot where Hercules is buried.
Hercules: A Love Story is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
Top image: Andy Robin and Hercules, from Hercules: A Love Story. Credit: Maggie Robin
