Wildly Famous: TVs Greatest Animal Stars

Think back to your favorite TV shows—how many of them had a scene-stealing animal in the cast? From loyal family dogs to wisecracking horses, from mischievous monkeys to a pig with star power, television has long had a soft spot for its four-legged (and sometimes feathered) co-stars. These animal actors weren’t just sidekicks; they often stole the spotlight, winning hearts and sometimes even outshining their human counterparts.

Inspired by my fascinating two-part Hollywood Obsessed podcast interview (Episodes 135 & 136) with TV legend Greg Evigan—who famously shared the screen with a chimpanzee named Sam on his hit ’70s series “BJ and the Bear”—I’ve written a fun blog post celebrating television’s most iconic animal stars.

So, grab the popcorn, saddle up, and get ready to take a wild (and furry) trip down memory lane as we revisit the TV pets and animal sidekicks who made us laugh, cry, and cheer right alongside them! Enjoy

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The Dog Who Ruled Primetime: A Look Back at Lassie

When it comes to classic television, few shows are as iconic—or as heartwarming—as “Lassie.” This beloved series followed the adventures of a loyal Rough Collie and her ever-changing human companions, capturing the hearts of audiences for an incredible 17 seasons from 1954 to 1973. That run makes “Lassie “the ninth longest-running scripted American primetime series in history! Produced by Robert Maxwell and animal trainer Rudd Weatherwax, the show began in black and white before making the leap to color in 1965, ensuring Lassie’s trademark white ruff looked more dazzling than ever.

The series went through several distinct “eras,” each bringing Lassie new adventures and relationships. For the first ten seasons, Lassie lived on the Miller/Martin farm, where much of the action centered on “a boy and his dog” stories—young Jeff or Timmy would inevitably stumble into trouble, only to be saved by their clever canine companion. Seasons eleven through sixteen became known as the “Ranger Years,” with Lassie joining U.S. Forest Ranger Corey Stuart after her farm family moved overseas. By season seventeen, the format changed again, transforming the show into an anthology series with Lassie wandering from place to place, helping those in need wherever she roamed.

Even after the original show ended, Lassie wasn’t ready to hang up her collar. The famous collie returned in “Lassie’s Rescue Rangers,” a Saturday-morning cartoon in 1973, then in the late ’80s revival “The New Lassie,” which even featured Jon Provost—Timmy himself—all grown up. A 1997 remake aired on the Animal Planet network, and from 2014 to 2020, “The New Adventures of Lassie” introduced the legendary pup to a brand-new generation through animation. Clearly, Lassie’s ability to inspire loyalty and love has never gone out of style.

But here’s a fascinating bit of trivia: Lassie was always played by male dogs! The tradition began with Pal, the original Rough Collie who starred in MGM’s 1943 film “Lassie Come Home” and later in the TV pilots. Pal’s descendants carried on his legacy in the long-running series, including Lassie Jr. and grandsons with names like Spook, Baby, and Hey Hey. Why no female collies? Because their seasonal shedding could interfere with filming. Pal lived to the impressive age of 18, and his legacy has lived on through every shaggy-coated hero that’s carried the Lassie name since.

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Flipper: TV’s Aquatic Hero Who Made a Splash

In the mid-1960s, America fell in love with a dolphin. “Flipper” aired on NBC from 1964 to 1967, following the adventures of a friendly bottlenose dolphin and his human family—Porter Ricks, the chief warden at Coral Key Marine Preserve, and his two sons, Sandy and Bud. Often called the “aquatic Lassie,” the series combined family drama, underwater adventure, and plenty of dolphin tricks, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Not surprisingly, a tidal wave of children’s toys and merchandise soon followed.

The show was inspired by the 1963 film “Flipper” and its sequel “Flipper’s New Adventure.” For the TV adaptation, Brian Kelly took over the role of Porter Ricks, now a park ranger raising his two sons in the Florida Keys. Shot on location in Miami, Key Biscayne, and the Bahamas, the series made sunny Florida look like paradise. The production also partnered with the Miami Seaquarium, ensuring that the underwater scenes had both authenticity and plenty of dolphin stunts to wow audiences.

Though the character of Flipper was always the same, the role was actually shared by five female dolphins—Susie, Kathy, Patty, Scotty, and Squirt—with a male dolphin named Clown stepping in for the famous “tail walk” trick. Female dolphins were chosen because they were gentler and had smoother skin, perfect for TV close-ups. Even after the series ended in 1967, “Flipper” lived on through reruns, syndication on networks like Nickelodeon and Animal Planet, and even a 1990s revival, proving that America’s favorite dolphin never really swam out of the spotlight.

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B.J. and the Bear: Trucking, Chimps, and 1970s TV Magic

When “B.J. and the Bear” rolled onto NBC in 1979, it brought together two things America couldn’t get enough of at the time: trucking and chimps. Created by Glen A. Larson and Christopher Crowe, the action-comedy series starred a young Greg Evigan as Billie Joe “B.J.” McKay, a Vietnam vet turned big-rig-driving free spirit who traveled the highways of America in his flashy red and white Kenworth K-100 Aerodyne. His constant companion? Bear, a mischievous (and often scene-stealing) chimpanzee named after legendary Alabama football coach Bear Bryant.

For three seasons, audiences tuned in to follow B.J. and Bear’s adventures on the open road. The show leaned hard into the era’s trucking and CB radio craze, and had plenty of lighthearted fun along with car chases, colorful guest stars, and B.J.’s undeniable charm. Bear wasn’t just along for the ride—he had a personality all his own. Played by chimps Sam and Oopsie, Bear was playful, unpredictable, and sometimes a little wild (especially when he got into the beer). He even became a pop-culture icon in his own right.

Though “B.J. and the Bear” was beloved by many, it only lasted until 1981, when ratings declined and tastes began to shift. The series has since become a time-capsule classic of late-’70s television, remembered for its mix of action, comedy, and offbeat charm. It’s also a show that likely couldn’t be made today—given modern concerns about animal rights and the welfare of chimps in entertainment. After the series ended, Sam and Oopsie retired from Hollywood, with Sam eventually finding sanctuary at a primate rescue after a few rocky years.

Still, for fans of Greg Evigan (and for anyone who lived through the CB radio craze), B.J. and the Bear remains a cult favorite—equal parts quirky, campy, and irresistibly nostalgic. Want to hear the behind-the-scenes scoop straight from the star himself? Don’t miss the HOLLYWOOD OBSESSSED two-part podcast interview with Greg Evigan, where he dishes on life in the fast lane with Bear, fun on-set stories, and what it was really like being the heartthrob trucker of primetime TV.

Click HERE to listen—it’s one ride you don’t want to miss!

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Mister Ed: TV’s Most Talkative Horse

Before there was “Lassie” or “Flipper” charming audiences with their animal antics, there was “Mister Ed”—the talking horse who became one of television’s quirkiest sitcom stars. Premiering in 1961, "Mister Ed" first trotted out in syndication before being picked up by CBS, where it ran until 1966. Over the course of 143 black-and-white episodes, this unusual palomino captured hearts (and plenty of laughs) simply by doing something no other TV animal could do—talk.

The show centered on genial but hapless architect Wilbur Post (played by Alan Young) and his wife Carol (Connie Hines), whose quiet suburban lives were constantly interrupted by the witty commentary and sarcastic one-liners of their horse, Mister Ed. Voiced by Western actor Allan “Rocky” Lane, Ed quickly became a wisecracking star in his own right, with a comic timing that made him the perfect foil for Wilbur’s well-meaning bumbling. Unlike many TV mysteries, Ed’s ability to talk was never explained—and really, no one seemed to care.

Behind the scenes, “Mister Ed” was actually played by a horse named Bamboo Harvester, with a second horse named Pumpkin occasionally stepping in as a stunt double. Producers had some fun with the credits, cheekily listing the role of Mister Ed as played by “Himself.” Lane, who provided Ed’s voice, remained uncredited throughout the series, although his signature delivery gave the horse much of his personality. To top it off, Sheldon Allman provided Ed’s singing voice in select episodes, proving that this horse truly had a talent for show business.

While “Mister Ed “wrapped up in 1966, the show has remained a beloved oddity in classic TV history. Its goofy premise, sharp writing, and that unforgettable opening theme (“A horse is a horse, of course, of course…”) turned it into a pop-culture staple. Decades later, “Mister Ed “still holds a special place in the legacy of television’s most unlikely stars, proving that sometimes the best comedy comes on four legs with a swishing tail.

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Eddie: The Jack Russell Who Stole the Show on Frasier

When it comes to classic TV pets, few have left as lasting an impression as Eddie, the quick-witted Jack Russell Terrier from “Frasier.” Airing on NBC for 11 seasons from 1993 to 2004, “Frasier” followed the life of psychiatrist Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer) as he returned to his hometown of Seattle to host a radio show, reconnect with his father Martin (John Mahoney), and navigate the hilariously awkward dynamic with his younger brother Niles (David Hyde Pierce). But lurking quietly—and often mischievously—in the background was Eddie, Martin’s loyal dog who seemed to understand every word spoken in the Crane household… especially when it came to Frasier.

Eddie was originally played by Moose, a male Jack Russell Terrier who won the role after just six months of training, and later by Moose’s son, Enzo. Known for his iconic long stare that could silence Frasier faster than any insult, Eddie became one of the show’s most beloved running gags. Whether he was silently judging Frasier’s pretentiousness, responding with near-human understanding to Martin and Daphne, or stealing the spotlight in any scene, Eddie had the uncanny ability to turn a simple look or head tilt into comedic gold. When physical affection was required, trainers applied sardine oil or liver pâté to coax Eddie into nuzzling the actors—classic behind-the-scenes ingenuity!

Moose’s fame extended far beyond the show itself. He appeared on multiple television programs, graced magazine covers, had an official calendar, and even “authored” an autobiography, “My Life as a Dog,” penned by Brian Hargrove, husband of David Hyde Pierce. After a remarkable career entertaining millions, Moose spent his final years in retirement in West Los Angeles alongside Enzo, passing away peacefully at home at the age of 15. Fans of the show remember him not just as a dog, but as an unforgettable personality who brought laughter, charm, and a touch of mischief to one of television’s most acclaimed sitcoms.

Alongside his human co-stars, Eddie helped make “Frasier” a record-setting series, contributing to the 37 Primetime Emmy Awards won by the cast and crew, including five consecutive wins for Outstanding Comedy Series. Decades later, Eddie’s stares, antics, and perfect timing continue to delight viewers, proving that sometimes the smartest and funniest character in the room isn’t a human at all—it’s a dog with a knowing look.

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Whatever Happened to Marcel the Monkey from Friends?

When Ross Geller brought home a monkey in Season 1 of “Friends,” Marcel quickly became one of the sitcom’s quirkiest and most beloved side characters. Introduced in “The One with the Monkey,” Marcel was Ross’s unusual companion, famous for dancing to “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” and creating chaos in the apartment. Though he was written off after Season 1, Marcel returned for memorable cameos—including an episode where Ross discovers his pet has become a movie star.

Behind the scenes, Marcel was actually played by a female capuchin monkey named Katie. Despite her small size, Katie was a big talent, appearing in eight episodes of “Friends.” David Schwimmer famously didn’t love working with her, but fans adored Marcel’s unpredictable energy and the way he shook up the dynamics of the group. Katie’s on-screen presence gave Marcel a personality that made him unforgettable, even though his run on the show was short-lived.

After her stint on “Friends,” Katie went on to have an impressive Hollywood career. She appeared in shows like “30 Rock,” “The Loop,” and “Sam & Cat,” and even returned to the spotlight years later playing Ampersand, the pet companion in the post-apocalyptic series "Y: The Last Man." Outside of acting, Katie made headlines when she did a photoshoot with Kendall Jenner in 2015—reportedly tugging playfully at her hair during the shoot.

Sadly, Katie the monkey passed away in September 2024 at the age of 29. But through reruns of "Friends" and her many other screen appearances, she left behind a legacy as one of TV’s most famous animal actors. Just like Marcel, Katie will always be remembered for stealing the scene and making audiences smile.

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Arnold Ziffel: The Pig Who Stole the Show on Green Acres

Among the quirky residents of Hooterville in “Green Acres,” none was more unforgettable than Arnold Ziffel, the pig who was treated like a son by Fred and Doris Ziffel. Far from ordinary livestock, Arnold was an anthropomorphic pig with human-like intelligence and a flair for comedy. He could turn on the TV, carry a schoolbook in his mouth, sign his own name, and was a loyal fan of Westerns. While everyone in town accepted Arnold as just another kid, Oliver Douglas remained the only one who insisted he was “just a pig”—a running gag that added to the show’s absurdist humor

Arnold wasn’t just a character; he was a star. He received his own fan mail from children and adults alike, and one class of sixth-graders even promised to stop eating pork chops in his honor. The piglet was paid $250 a day—a union wage that made him one of the most pampered animal actors of the era. With his unique blend of charm and “acting talent,” Arnold often stole scenes from the human cast, cementing his place as one of television’s most memorable animal characters.

Behind the scenes, Arnold was played by several piglets, most of them female since they grew more slowly and could maintain the same “look” longer on camera. The pigs were carefully trained by Hollywood animal trainer Frank Inn, who also worked with other famous TV animals. The original Arnold was eventually cremated, and his ashes were buried with Inn at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills—a testament to just how beloved he was by those who worked with him.

Arnold Ziffel may have been a pig, but he became a cultural icon of 1960s television. From his school attendance to his TV-watching habits, Arnold blurred the line between farm animal and family member, capturing the imagination of audiences across America. Decades later, he remains a symbol of the surreal charm that made "Green Acres" such a cult classic, proving once and for all that sometimes the funniest character in the room isn’t even human.

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Betty: The Scene-Stealing Chihuahua on Will Trent

While “Will Trent” is best known as a gritty crime drama, fans of the ABC series know that one of its biggest hearts belongs to its smallest character: Betty, Will’s beloved chihuahua. Introduced in the very first episode, Betty came into Will’s life after her elderly owner passed away, and the emotionally guarded detective couldn’t bring himself to send her to a shelter. Since then, Betty has become much more than a pet—she’s Will’s constant companion, an emotional anchor, and a fan favorite who often steals the spotlight from the humans.

On-screen, Betty represents a softer side of Will. Abandoned as a child and scarred by the foster system, Will has trouble letting people get close. But with Betty, his vulnerability shines through. Their bond is simple, pure, and deeply telling—she brings out the part of Will that longs for connection, comfort, and unconditional love. It’s no surprise that viewers have rallied around her, treating Betty like a full-fledged member of the “Will Trent” family.

Behind the scenes, Betty is played by an 8-year-old purebred chihuahua named Bluebell. With her expressive eyes and calm demeanor, Bluebell was already a seasoned performer before joining "Will Trent." She even appeared in Disney’s “Cruella” as one of the dogs who played Wink, Emma Stone’s scene-stealing sidekick. Trained by April Macklin, Bluebell made the leap from the U.K. to Atlanta and quickly settled into her role as Will’s four-legged confidante.

Whether she’s curled up on Will’s bed, giving him side-eye, or quietly grounding him after a long day, Betty has become the soul of “Will Trent.” In a show filled with dark cases and haunted characters, she’s a reminder of loyalty, resilience, and the healing power of companionship. Small but mighty, Betty isn’t just Will’s best friend—she’s one of TV’s most endearing pets.

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From Lassie to Flipper, from Eddie on "Frasier" to Mr. Ed the talking horse, and from Marcel the monkey to Arnold Ziffel the pig and Betty the chihuahua, television’s animal stars have always stolen the spotlight. These unforgettable companions prove that sometimes the smallest—or furriest—cast members leave the biggest impact. Their stories remind us of the joy, humor, and heart that animal actors bring to our screens. (Some facts in this post were sourced from IMDb and Wikipedia.)

And if you can’t get enough behind-the-scenes TV magic, don’t miss my fascinating two-part interview with Greg Evigan, star of “B.J. and the Bear,” on the latest episodes of the Hollywood Obsessed podcast! Bursting with exclusive stories, surprises, and plenty of laughs, it’s a conversation you won’t find anywhere else.

Listen now and get inspired:

Episode 135 – HERE

Episode 136 – HERE