The extraordinary and heartwarming tale of Hercules, a 65-stone grizzly bear who became a global celebrity in the 1980s, has captivated audiences once again in a new BBC2 documentary. The film, Hercules The Bear - A Love Story, revisits the incredible bond between the colossal animal and his owners, wrestler Andy Robin and his wife Maggie, who treated him 'like a son' at their farm near Dunblane.
From Wrestling Rings to Hollywood Screens
Hercules was no ordinary pet. Purchased as a cub from a Scottish wildlife park, he was raised by the childless couple who doted on him completely. He rose to fame through exhibition wrestling bouts with Andy across the country, even appearing on ITV's World Of Sport. His star power led to television advertisements and a memorable role alongside Sir Roger Moore in the 1983 James Bond film Octopussy. The bear's celebrity status was cemented when he caddied for comedy legend Bob Hope during a round of golf at the prestigious Gleneagles hotel.
However, his most famous escapade occurred in 1980 when he escaped in the Outer Hebrides. For 24 days, Hercules roamed the islands, evading capture and causing a media sensation. The concern was so great that one local school kept its pupils indoors, fearing the bear might pose a threat. He was eventually recaptured, unharmed, adding to his legendary status.
A Life of Luxury and Very High Standards
The documentary, which aired on BBC2 and previously on BBC Scotland, highlights the deep affection the Robins had for 'Herky'. Maggie Robin, now 74, revealed the astonishing details of his pampered daily life. Hercules would drink morning tea from a mug, sit at the table to blow out his birthday candles, and sprawl by the fire at night.
His refined palate was legendary. Maggie would make a 20-mile round trip to Marks & Spencer for his favourite treats, as he rejected anything 'cheap'. A typical day's menu included a whole bloomer loaf, beans, four eggs, and coffee with evaporated milk for breakfast. Lunch was another bloomer with beans, and his favourite dinner was ox heart with carrots and potatoes—which he would refuse if undercooked.
Hercules also enjoyed the occasional tipple. He liked a pint of lager, but his preferred drink was a sweet dessert wine or Asti Spumante. 'Herc was a cheap drunk,' Maggie recalled. 'One glass and you'd start to see him wobble.'
A Lasting Legacy and a Final Resting Place
The story concludes on a poignant note. Hercules died in 2002 at the age of 25. He is buried on the Isle of North Uist in the Outer Hebrides, the site of his great escape, where a wooden statue now stands in his memory. His devoted owner, Andy Robin, who passed away in 2019 at the age of 84, was laid to rest beside him, reuniting the unconventional family.
The BBC2 film focuses on the bear's news-making adventures and chat show appearances, but at its heart, it remains the touching story of a unique and profound bond between a couple and the gigantic grizzly they loved as their own child.
