12 Celebrities Who Adopted Their Animal Co-Stars
Movies and TV shows often feature animals that are so endearing that they become as memorable as their human counterparts. But for some actors, those bonds didn’t end when the credits rolled. They were able to take their on-screen companions home. In this article, we’ll talk about some of these celebrities who found adorable connections on set.
Sarah Jessica Parker and Shoe the Cat
Credit: Instagram
While Sarah Jessica Parker was reviving her role as Carrie Bradshaw in her famous sequel series, a certain cat co-star found a way into her heart. Shoe (whose real name is Lotus) wasn’t just another prop on set. Parker noticed Lotus’s quiet, calming presence during filming and felt an undeniable connection. By the time production wrapped, she had made a life-changing decision: Lotus would come home with her. Now, the cat shares Parker’s Manhattan lifestyle.
Sophie Turner and Lady the Direwolf
Credit: Reddit
“Game of Thrones” fans will remember Lady, Sansa Stark’s faithful direwolf, who offered unending loyalty and protection. Sophie Turner, who played Sansa, felt that connection extend beyond her character. When Lady’s storyline ended, Turner stepped in and adopted the Northern Inuit dog who portrayed her.
Elizabeth Taylor and King Charles
Credit: IMDb
In the 1944 classic “National Velvet,” Elizabeth Taylor’s chemistry with her equine co-star, King Charles, was undeniable. Their scenes together were as if they understood each other on an instinctive level. Off-screen, Taylor spent hours with King Charles and formed a bond so strong that the production gifted her the horse after filming ended. King Charles became her companion for years to follow.
Tiffany Haddish and the Kitten from “Keanu”
Credit: Facebook
Tiffany Haddish brought plenty of humor in “Keanu,” but her off-screen bond with the kitten who starred alongside her was no joke. The tiny cat charmed everyone on set, but Haddish saw something special. After filming wrapped, she decided to adopt the kitten and give it a loving home. Haddish often shares adorable glimpses of her life with the cat on Instagram.
Robert Redford and a Horse from “The Electric Horseman”
Credit: Youtube
Robert Redford’s iconic role in “The Electric Horseman” revolved around a man rediscovering his values, and it seems life imitated art. While working with the horses on set, Redford formed a particular attachment to one. He purchased the horse after filming to ensure it would live out its days in comfort and care.
Yvette Nicole Brown and Harley
Credit: Instagram
Disney’s live-action “Lady and the Tramp” introduced Yvette Nicole Brown to Harley, a lovable dog who played one of the film’s furry stars. Brown’s admiration for Harley went beyond professional appreciation; she saw a spirit in him that resonated with her. For Brown, adopting Harley was about offering a new chapter to a dog who had already captured hearts on screen.
Viggo Mortensen and His Horses
Credit: Reddit
Viggo Mortensen is a name synonymous with epic tales, and his real-life actions mirror the bravery of his on-screen roles. While playing Aragorn in “The Lord of the Rings,” Mortensen bonded with his horse, Brego. Their connection was so deep that Mortensen adopted him after the trilogy ended. Later, during “Hidalgo,” he repeated the act, bringing home another equine co-star.
Taylor Swift and Benjamin Button
Credit: Instagram
In Taylor Swift’s vibrant music video for “ME!,” a playful Scottish Fold kitten named Benjamin Button made his debut. But as is the mysterious case of cats, Swift was immediately smitten. She adopted Benjamin Button, who now enjoys life alongside her other famous cats, Meredith Grey and Olivia Benson.
Peri Gilpin and Moosie
Credit: Youtube
Behind the scenes during Peri Gilpin’s role in “Frasier,” she found something profoundly personal. While working on a project, Gilpin met Moosie, a spirited dog who quickly captured her heart. Adopting Moosie was an easy decision for Gilpin, who saw the adoption as an opportunity to extend her love for animals in a meaningful way.
Audrey Hepburn and Pippin
Credit: Reddit
Audrey Hepburn’s role in “Green Mansions” brought her into close contact with Pippin, a young fawn cast as her on-screen companion. Hepburn treated Pippin with care and gentleness throughout filming, and their bond deepened into something rare. By the time production wrapped, Hepburn had brought Pippin into her home. Together, they created a picturesque story of love that resonated far beyond the film.
Chris Evans and Dodger
Credit: Instagram
While filming “Gifted,” Chris Evans met Dodger, a shelter dog who instantly won his affection. The connection was mutual, and Evans adopted Dodger before leaving the set. Today, the two are inseparable, with Evans often sharing their adventures on social media.
Sylvester Stallone and Cuff and Link
Credit: Instagram
Aside from being a story about perseverance, “Rocky” was also the beginning of a decades-long friendship. Sylvester Stallone adopted two turtles, Cuff and Link, who appeared in the 1976 film. Decades later, they made a cameo in “Creed II,” showing that their relationship has stood the test of time.
David Dastmalchian and Bubblegum
Credit: Reddit
Sometimes, Hollywood’s best adoption stories don’t come from movies—they come from unexpected encounters. While filming in Panama, David Dastmalchian met a stray cat on set. Captivated by her charm, he adopted her and gave her a name as unique as her story: Abner Bubblegum Polka Dot Cat.