MJ’s Big Cat Thriller Has Died

Posted: Jun 27 2012

HOLLYWOOD – Thriller, a big Bengal tiger that once belonged to pop singer Michael Jackson, has died.

The 13 years old, 375-pounds cat died on June 11th from lung cancer.

Thriller use to live with Jackson at his Neverland Ranch from the time he was born on Nov. 20, 1998 until May 4, 2006.

But when Michael left the ranch, the veterinarian who looked after Thriller and another tiger named Sabu, asked actress-activist Tippi Hedren to take both tigers at her Shambala Preserve in Acton, about 50 miles north of Los Angeles.

Unlike many of the animals at the preserve, Thriller and Sabu arrived at the compound in excellent health physically and emotionally, Hedren said.

“Thriller was a real piece of work, one gutsy girl. She ruled Sabu’s life. It was humorous to watch the whole relationship. She did things to him that male tigers would normally never allow. She would steal food from him. That’s unheard of. She ruled the roost, was very independent and tough,” Hedren said.

Thriller the tiger once belonged to singer Michael Jackson. Photo Credit: BRUNO

An autopsy was performed on Thriller and he was cremated. Staff workers will hold a private service when the ashes are buried in a section of the preserve set aside for animals that die there.

Jackson, who died in 2009, often talked about his love of animals, but he never called to check on the tigers and he never sent any money to help pay for their care, Hedren said.