25. Kirstie Alley’s lemurs

Hollywood legend Kirstie Alley had a well-known passion for all things furry and feathered. She was an unapologetic animal enthusiast, self-describing as “an animal lunatic.” A special part of her heart, though, was reserved for a set of creatures right out of a wildlife documentary – lemurs. These wide-eyed primates native to Madagascar were more than just Alley’s pets; they were her extended family.

Alley’s residence was home to not one, not two, but a whopping 14 ring-tailed lemurs, who cohabited harmoniously with her dogs, a squirrel, and several wild birds. She even went to the extent of creating a dedicated habitat for her lemurs right in her backyard, a testament to her commitment to providing them with the best life possible. These lemurs were so much a part of her daily routine that Alley once attempted to sneak one through airport security by pretending it was a cat – a tale that had audiences in stitches when she recounted it on the Rachael Ray show.

However, her love for lemurs was not just based on their adorable looks and quirky antics. Kirstie had a profound appreciation for conservation, particularly in Madagascar, and owning lemurs was a way to contribute to that cause. She was passionate about educating people on the responsibilities of having a lemur as a pet. She would often remind anyone who’d listen that lemurs are a long-term commitment, living up to 30 years and requiring meticulous care. Despite her deep love for them, she’d humorously point out the reality of the situation – her animal caretaker’s salary was a testament to their demanding care needs. For Kirstie Alley, the animal lunatic, her unique menagerie of pets was worth every bit of the effort, time, and money. And for those of us who heard her tales, her love for her lemurs added another delightful dimension to her vibrant personality.