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The Lion Reunion Video Sensation

Posted: Wednesday, July 30, 2008 9:22 AM by Dan Fleschner
Filed Under:

UPDATE:  You asked for it, and we delivered.  Today Meredith caught up with Christian's former owners, John Rendall and Ace Bourke, over 30 years after the reunion video was filmed.  Check out the story and video, as well as photos of Christian in London and Africa.


We've all been there. You buy a baby lion, raise it in your home, then have to return it to the wilds of Africa because it grows too large for your apartment/house/hovel. 

If it's happened to me once, it's happened 10 times.

And apparently, it happened to a couple of British men in the 1970s. The difference with their experience, though, is that a year after bringing the lion back to Africa, they returned to see if they could find their feline friend (known as Christian).

Against all odds, they were reunited (in slow motion) with Christian, and the video -- set to Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" has become a viral video sensation. And apparently, it's not a hoax. Want more? Read the FULL STORY or see the VIDEO.

We had to cut away before the last lines of the video, but this is what they say:

"Love knows no limits and true friendships last a lifetime. Get back in touch with someone today. You'll be glad you did."

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Comments

This is a very touching video.  But it is the exception not the rule, when it comes to wild animals.  Just ask Siegfried & Roy.

ge`pa` (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 9:38 AM)

Why was there so much laughter?  This was a beautiful, loving moment.  Grow Up!

Mary, Memphis, TN (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 10:10 AM)

Very disappointed with your coverage of this video.  I was hoping for maybe an interview with the two men on their personal experiences or reactions to the youtube coverage.  And what about a link to other such amazing animal stories of the pure love they express?  The joke finishing up the spot? Out of line with the special point the video makes. Too bad your people didn't get it. Many of us appreciate it's message... thank you for airing it.    

Michele Morrison, Alton, Illinois (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 10:21 AM)

I think the story was very touching.  I am very upset that David would make fun of the story not once but several times.  I am not sure why the Today Show would do a story just to have the "guest" host make fun of it.  I would have thought better of the program that alway delivers great stories as well, as at least on air, anchors that care about the news and stories that they are telling.  I not so sure David is a good mix when Matt is away if he thinks his duties includes taking something that means something to someone and have so much fun at their expense, I just hope that the men in the story were not watching to see something so important to them turn in to a joke. I think the Today Show should rethink what kind of program they want to be.  Give David a pen a parting gift and find someone who repects the peoples life they are reporting on, seeing how the pen was more important than peoples feelings. Thanks  

Thomas Greguich, Grove City , PA (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 10:25 AM)

I really want some more info on this. At about the same time as the Born Free book why has this story been not heard of till now. Is there a place where I can read more about this. Don't pique my interest then leave me hanging. There's got to be more to this story.

Paulette Warmuth Moundsville, WV (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 10:32 AM)

I was so touched by this video!! The only downside was the guy replacing Matt today.  He made 2 smart-aleck comments about it trying to minimize the emotions it evoked. I think I'll wait until Matt gets back before I watch Today again.

Susan Freeport, IL (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 10:43 AM)

I just bought the entire documentary about Christian. Amazing footage. I cry every time I see the reunion. Does anybody know what happened to the two guys Ace and John? I would love to know.  

Kelly Teal Slidell, La. (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 11:07 AM)

Meredith, I cried too and I was on the treadmill when I saw it!! I'm glad it wasn't analyzed or mocked like so many animal stories are.  Let us feel alittle emotion once in awhile.

Nancy Latt, St. Louis, Mo (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 11:25 AM)

Meredith, I cried as well when I saw the footage about the lion reunion!  Your fill-in co-host was definately irritating with his off the cuff negative comments!  I love watching you every morning Meredith!  You are a really wonderful, refreshing host and a 'real' person that all can admire.  

Holly Breton, Wells, Maine (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 11:45 AM)

I, too, thoroughly enjoyed the video on Christian, the lion. As an animal lover, I am aware of the bond between humans & animals & can't help but wonder why that replacement guy felt the need to mock it. Matt, hurry back!!!

Diane Churchill (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 11:51 AM)

inspite of the comments by susan from Freeport, Il., I was very touched by the video and to wondered why we haven't heard about this escapade before. what a touching remake of "Elsie". I too am wondering what happened to the young men who raised Christian as a cub and in their heart had to let him go free. Kinda like raising children. My husband was playing suduko when I said can we flip to "you tube" because they have been talking about this lion for over an hour and I was getting anxious. He did as I bidded and I have watched all the segmented videos. Each and everyone has brought tears to our eyes. Thank you "TODAY" for bringing attention to heart warming news. The news is so filled with tragedy such as the kidnapping of that ever so cute little girl in Florida to the conflicts of war that this warms our hearts in a time when our hearts need a little assurance.  That being said I would like to mention that my son, Michael, who is 40, is now in Irag leaving behind a wife with 3 children and another on the way. My husband's only son is in Afghanistan. so we are always thankful for some heartfelt news. By the way thanks to the internet, which we are novices at best appreciate the input.  we are working the internet as best we can and we love it.

kathleen Bragg-Hynes Tigard, Oregon (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 12:24 PM)

Where did Kelly Teal get the documentary she bought about the lion and his friends? I would love to see more also.

Paulette Warmuth Moundsville, WV (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 12:32 PM)

To Susan in Freeport:  I think David Gregory, Matt's replacement on today, today is great.  I could watch him everyday.  He has a very quick wit that is refreshing to watch when he is on Today.I am always over joyed when he is on today.  

Cyndi, Rockford Il (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 12:38 PM)

This has been one of my favorite YouTube videos for a long time, and I cry every time I see it. I appreciate the fact that Meredith was moved by it, and it demonstrates the reason why I am glad that she is in the anchor chair---she is a rock-solid reporter, but also can be herself on the air; someone with a big heart.

Lisa Griffin, Louisville, KY (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 1:31 PM)

I thought this was one of the most beautiful videos that I have ever seen.  The obvious joy that the lion shows when he sees his two friends made me cry like a baby. Anyone who isn't affected by this video must have a heart of stone. Thanks to whoever posted it on youtube.

Mary Lopez, Ocala FL (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 1:49 PM)

I saw a male lion go after a pack of hyenas when they were biting at his mate. He singled one out and it was the most vicious animal attack I've ever seen, killing it instantly. Males sleep 20 hours a day and appear lazy. They're not.

Full Moon (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 2:39 PM)

Mersdith and David, I was crying also. I have watched the clip several time today and had everyone in the office watch the clip...we were all crying. David was very funny this morning.

Denise Byron, Brookfield, Il (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 2:39 PM)

I saw this feature on The Today Show. It was a wonderful,happy story. In 1973 I was a Navy sailor and my ship stopped at Mombasa, Kenya. I went on a 2 day photo safari to Tsavo National Park. I didn't see any lions but the elephants were hard-pressed by the poachers.

Thomas Schmitz, Malone, WI (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 3:01 PM)

I am so touch with the story. As animal lover, I always look for the topics to read or watch related to animal. They are amazing. Please find more story related to any amazing animal. Thanks for the story.

Corine, Fremont, California (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:02 PM)

David obviously needs a lesson on sensitivity.  I did not appreciate his flip comments.  I applaud The Today Show for showing this video.  

Mayra Galutza, Sun Valley, California (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:03 PM)

I would love to hear from the Brouke and Rendall- what do they think of this sensation? It's been close to forty years. John Rendall is listed as a trustee and active fundraiser on the George Adamson Wildlife Preservation Trust. It appears his experience with Christian has shaped his life. Brouke and Rendall wrote abook on their experience with Christian, however it is out of print.  You can purchase the DVD on the Born Free Foundation web. It's a documentary on Christian's reintroduction to free life in Africa.

T. Herzog, White Pine, TN (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:08 PM)

I have watched this video dozens of times on YouTube and I cry every time.   It is so heartwarming.  I agree with other posters here in saying that David Gregory acted in a very childish and unprofessional way in relaying this story.  It was, in fact, very upsetting to watch him.   I also wish that NBC would try to track down these men that raised Christian to be interviewed.

Leigh from Nebraska (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:12 PM)

It's a beautiful thing that man and beast are able to love each other.  I am so glad that this lion remembered these men.  I am grateful that they filmed it for everyone to enjoy.

I am a grown man and I've been crying all day because of this.  Thanks for bringing this clip to my attention.

TheScrunitzer, Seattle WA (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:25 PM)

I've raised about a dozen tiger cubs...and to this day, everyone still recognizes me and acts in the same manner. I do not go in with fully grown tigers because it is dangerous, but it's an amazing feeling to have a large cat recognize you, come up to you and let you pet him or her and see nothign but affection in their eyes.

Steve Myers Amarillo Texas (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:26 PM)

Both owners are alive and well.

David thought he was funny...I love humor and joking around, but that was not the time for that stupid, dorky, joke. He should know better.

From a "Macho Guy" --easily the best video in you tube history.

Buster Hamilton (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:26 PM)

What a great story!  But why are we just learning about it now when it happened years ago?

RJ - Athens, PA (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:26 PM)

I truly love this video. Steven Tyler's "I Don't Want To Miss A Thing" is played with the video footage I have seen.  It is absolutely wonderful.  Go to snopes.com and look up 'Christian the Lion.'  You will find more information about him and will also see the video on this site.  What a wonderful memory for these two young men to hold in their hearts.  And thank you both - now I have something to share and hold in my heart too!  Christian Rocks!

Elizabeth Angle, Rhinelander WI (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:35 PM)

The video footage was shared with me yesterday by an old zoo colleague. It is touching and should be appreciated. Many people have dedicated their lives to learning about and caring for wild animals -- most of them rescued from a cruel and unfortunate fate. These men, and others who work on behalf of animals, should be commended for their role as stewards of wildlife. I was disappointed in David Gregory's comments and would hope he and other viewers would respect the intelligence and kind-nature of these animals.

Tia Kuchik, Loveland OH (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:40 PM)

I thought that was a wonderful video - it's great that these two men took care of this lion and loved it so much.  All animals need love and care from us humans!

Heather Scott Pittsburgh, PA (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:41 PM)

It was George Adamson, "Father Of the Lions" from Born Free (Elsa) that accepted Christian into his pride and helped him on the road to freedom. There is a DVD called Christian the lion, that I highly recommend , it is suitable for the whole family . It is a film that documents Christian the lion's  journey :) Christian stars as himself.
There is also an old out of print book A Lion Called Christian, very hard to find but, such a great read.
The DVD can be found on ebay as well as on Amazon.


Sylvia Keseru (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:43 PM)

I just hope that the fact this great animal had befriended these two guys ,that some day down the road,he may see someone (human)that he may think are friends and end up being shot to death. It would be a terrible shame !!!

H. Stewart (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:45 PM)

Very touching video and story.  This just goes to show the power of love and loyalty between man and beast.  

Diana, Long Beach, CA. (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:47 PM)

I was another crier while watching this video.  I felt David's comment about the lion eating the men after this video was made was terribly inappropriate, as was his making fun of Meredith for crying.  He obviously isn't an animal lover.    

Wendy Pallotta, Bay Village, OH (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:49 PM)

I found it so bittersweet that these three who obviously loved each other had to end their relationship. It was apparent they missed each other and such a bond is not easily made. When the lion lies down with the lamb I think I will go over and say hello.

Lisa, NYC (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:49 PM)

I've watched this video on youtube dozens of times, and NEVER has I found it disturbing or humorous. Meredith's reaction is just about everyone's reaction--how or why this reunion evokes so many tears from so many people, I don't know. Maybe we all want to be loved this much by someone/something?

It's too bad they didn't play the whole thing and I think the anchorman was way off base with his comments. He's the unfortunate one.

Maia Daly, Hull, MA (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:50 PM)

I'm a 71 year old man who has always felt that any animal, wild or not, will respond to love truly given and this is one more example. How about the man who raises bears, anyone who has seen the Dr Dolittle movie has seen them. Ladies, you were not the only ones who cried over this video.

Roy Robinson, Glenwood Springs, Colorado (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:50 PM)

I cry everytime I see this video.  Just the recognition in Christian is an incredible thing to watch.  And on a personal note to kathleen Bragg-Hynes Tigard, Oregon, tell your boys thank you and we keep them in our prayers everyday.  Our son just came home for good and I know yours will too.  Actually when our son got off the plane, he had the same look on his face as Christian!  

Joyce Holman, Durango, CO (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:51 PM)

Beautiful, simply beautiful. If this doesn't move you, you're emotionally dead. It got to me because I'm a cat person to begin with!

Keith McIntosh, Lansing, MI (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:54 PM)

This is proof (if any is needed) that animals can, in fact, feel love. Absolutely beautiful story.

Maureen Forry, Boston MA (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:54 PM)

It's bitter sweet and proves the arrogance of mankind I've been told animals have no soul or feelings only people matter! I am glad to see that is wrong all living things matter how would you like to be bought and sold as a pet, abused abandoned or tormented to death sold to a zoo and kept in a small cage for all of you natural life? woe unto the crown of creation!! and way to go boys one precious life saved

Jay D Miami Florida (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:55 PM)

ge pa - if you ask Sigfreid or Roy, they will tell you their cat was trying to 'rescue' Roy from himself while he was having a stroke on stage and the the bulk of the damage ocurred when people tried to stop the cat from getting Roy offstage.  They truly believe the cat had no intention of hurting Roy.  And there is always the lady who rescued Leo and who visits him regularly (smart girl, she greets him with a gate between them but he still wraps his paws around her shoulders with his claws inhibited.)  I found the most amazing thing about the Christian video was that the female lion, who was not raised by humans, allowed the humans to pet her.  

pat. harrisburg, pa (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:56 PM)

Meredith...I've always thought you're like me; I cried too!  What a beautiful video.  As a girl, I loved "Born Free" and read anything I could find about the Adamsons.  This is the kind of stuff that can brighten your day, that's for sure.

Nina McCullock, Hurdle Mills NC (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:56 PM)

Can't type too much as I can't see the keyboard for tears!!!! What a wonderful heart stopping moment.

Rebecca (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:58 PM)

This video was so incredible that I brought 6 of my employees just before break to see it and cried rght in front of them. It makes me think that not only are we all humans connected in a spiritual way, but perhaps humans and animals.  I know I am with every dear pet I have ever had. Doesn't make you want to save every living creature...and trees,grasses,etc.?

Terri L. Little (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:58 PM)

How can one NOT have emotions after watching this? It is a very happy story. Thanks for sharing this film.    

Suzi, Deltona, FL (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:59 PM)

I have to be the voice of reality here and agree with Ge'Pa'- this is the exception- not because of the lion but because of us humans.  Normally, the "exotic pet", which in reality is a wild animal, is not nearly so fortunate as Christian.  Once they outgrow their "cuteness" and become the adult animal they are, their owners aren't as well off as these 2 guys financially and they get sold to a circus and tortured to do tricks for human laughter(like the lion that attacked Sigreid and Roy) or end up being "euthanized" or kept in a too small cage,and left to half starve to death outdoors.  Just seeing that the lion remembered the two guys should help us all understand that animals have feelings and memories and we should treat them with the respect and care they deserve.
DLee

D Lee, Middlebury, CT (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:59 PM)

So glad NBC covered this story, don't know who the commentator that was with Meredith Vieira is, don't watch the Today Show, however, someone may want to recommend he toddle back on his medication.  His behavior is disturbing if not bizarre.

Richard Fox, Phoenix, Arizona (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 4:59 PM)

Great segment.....get more background on the rest of the story......Gregory---more than a bit crass!!

Dave Tee---north liberty, iowa (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 5:01 PM)

This is amazing, I truly believe animals are absolutely smart, more I know about humans beings more I love animals.

Birmingham, Al (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 5:01 PM)

What a beautiful video clip!  LOVED IT! I love Lions with all my heart... so much so I have a 6" tatoo of a male lion on my leg. This video clip really made my day.
Thank you Today Show for airing such a touching story.

Tammy, Lopatcong, NJ (Sent Tuesday, July 22, 2008 5:02 PM)



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