“Cheetah” the Chimp of Tarzan Fame Dies at 80 [VIDEO]

Despite his name Cheetah he was a chimp. Actually the oldest living chimp in captivity. Known as the comedian of the Tarzan movies of the 1930's Cheetah outlived his human co-star, Johnny Weissmuller, by 25 years. He passed away Saturday at the age of 80.

Chimpanzees can live up to 50 years in captivity, Cheetah was an amazing 80 years old. Cheetah was one of a number of chimps used in the film but was the original. He is thought to have been born in Liberia, West Africa and discovered by an animal trainer in 1932.

Cheetah did have a few vices, including alcohol and cigarettes, apparently he liked a good drink every once in awhile. There were many scenes in the Tarzan series that showed Cheetah drinking and that seemed to carry over into his real life as well. Do all Hollywood stars have alcohol problems?

After his retirement, like all good senior citizens Cheetah moved to Florida and lived out his days in a sanctuary. He finger painted and watched football.