In the heart of Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Nagoya, Japan, resides a charismatic and photogenic gorilla named Shabani. This silverback gorilla has not only captured the hearts of visitors with his handsome looks but has also become a social media sensation, drawing admirers from far and wide.
Shabani first gained public attention in 2007 when he showcased his unique talent for tightrope walking. Originally, the ropes were installed for the gorillas to hang from, but Shabani, with his flair for balance and coordination, turned this into an entertaining spectacle. This unexpected skill set added to his allure and set the stage for his rise to fame.
The charming gorilla found himself in the spotlight once again in 2015, thanks to a viral video capturing his high jump to reach leaves on a wall. This endearing display of agility resonated with audiences worldwide, turning Shabani into a social media sensation. Visitors flocked to the zoo, eager to catch a glimpse of this remarkable gorilla, shouting phrases like, “Look at me, Shabani!” and “This way, Shabani!” as if beckoning him for a photo op.
Despite his undeniable appeal, Shabani is not just a bachelor looking for love. He is a family man with two wives, Ai and Nene, and two children, Kiyomasi and Annie. Born in October 1996 in the Netherlands to Mouila and Kibabu, Shabani moved to Australia when he was just two months old along with the rest of his family. His journey eventually led him to the Higashiyama Zoo in Nagoya in 2007, where he became a beloved resident and a symbol of charm.
What makes Shabani’s story even more intriguing is the age difference with his wife Nene, who is 24 years his senior. Nene, defying expectations, gave birth to Shabani’s son at the age of 40—an unusual occurrence in the world of female gorillas. This unique family dynamic adds another layer to Shabani’s captivating tale.
Despite his status as a heartthrob, the zoo staff downplays the notion that Shabani possesses any exceptional features. They argue that all gorillas have striking and attractive qualities, suggesting that perhaps more people are now taking the time to appreciate the beauty of these majestic creatures.
In 2015, the Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens celebrated Shabani’s popularity by publishing an official Shabani Photo Album, which quickly became a bestseller on Amazon. The album provided fans with an up-close and personal look at the gorilla’s daily life, further solidifying his status as a beloved celebrity.
Shabani’s journey from a tightrope-walking sensation to a beloved family man highlights the unique and endearing qualities of gorillas. His story transcends the boundaries of the animal kingdom, resonating with people around the world who have come to appreciate the beauty and charm of these remarkable creatures. As Shabani continues to enchant visitors and capture hearts, he remains a symbol of the incredible diversity and charisma found in the animal kingdom.
