A new documentary series examines the complex issue of keeping chimpanzees as pets. The four-part HBO series “Chimp Crazy” exposes the practice of keeping these endangered wild animals and highlights both the dangers it presents as well as the psychological factors that drive some owners.
The series focuses on Tonia Haddix, whose life revolves around caring for her 32-year-old chimpanzee named Tonka. Tonka was once featured in Hollywood movies but now lives in a cage at Haddix’s home. Though Haddix says she loves Tonka and sees him as a son, she has faced criticism for feeding him unhealthy human food and keeping him in cramped conditions. Animal rights activists argue this is inappropriate for a chimpanzee and have sued to remove Tonka and place him in a sanctuary.
While Haddix believes she provides the best care for Tonka, the documentary raises questions about keeping intelligent wild animals as pets. It notes chimpanzees have attacked humans, sometimes severely, when kept in captivity. Beyond Haddix’s case, the filmmaker examines other incidents where pet chimpanzees harmed owners or others. Such events demonstrate the inherent risk in keeping powerful wild animals in a domestic setting rather than their natural habitat.
The documentary also follows Haddix’s unconventional defense that Tonka is partly human, a claim scientists reject. Still, this reveals how strongly attached owners can become and how far they may go to rationalize keeping exotic pets. Overall, “Chimp Crazy” brings nuanced perspective to both the controversy over exotic pet ownership and the psychology of people like Haddix who want to care for chimpanzees.
While evoking some empathy for Haddix’s love of Tonka, the documentary underscores why primates belong in sanctuaries rather than homes. It prompts viewers to consider where to draw the line between documenting reality and contributing to the spectacles of exotic pet ownership. The series premieres August 18 on HBO.
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