Hollywood mourns another great . . . Tarzan’s best friend Cheetah dies at 80

HE was a star of the Golden Age of Hollywood, partial to the odd temper tantrum but always ready to pucker up to a good-looking girl.

Cheetah the chimp, who appeared in the classic Tarzan movies in the early 1930s, has died of kidney failure in an animal sanctuary in Florida. He was 80 years old.

As part of the famous double act of Tarzan and Cheetah, he starred alongside Johnny Weissmuller, the former American Olympic gold medal swimmer in a number of movies released between 1932 and 1934.

After retiring from the silver screen, he dabbled in painting with his many canvases sold to fans, but retained the occasional flash of temper which he indulged by hurling his faeces at those who displeased him. He was soothed by Christian hymns, according to his handler.

The Suncoast Primate Sanctuary in Florida announced that the community “has lost a dear friend and family member” with the death of Cheetah.

Debbie Cobb, the outreach director of the sanctuary, said the chimp was outgoing and liked to see people laugh. Ms Cobb explained that Cheetah came to the sanctuary from the estate of Johnny Weissmuller.

Sanctuary volunteer Ron Priest said Cheetah stood out because of his ability to stand up – shoulders tall, back straight – and walk like a person.

Cheetah also stood out for another reason, Mr Priest said: “When he didn’t like somebody he would pick up some poop and throw it at them. He could get you at 30ft with bars in between.”