The extraordinary tale of Hercules, a 65-stone grizzly bear who became a beloved pet and a 1980s celebrity, has captivated audiences once again in a poignant 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 Farmyard to Fame: A Bear's Unlikely Career
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. His life of fame began with exhibition wrestling bouts alongside Andy across the country, even featuring on ITV's World Of Sport. His charisma translated to television commercials and a memorable silver screen appearance with Roger Moore in the James Bond film Octopussy.
His celebrity status was cemented with surreal moments, such as caddying 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, evading capture for an entire month and causing a local school to lock its pupils indoors over safety fears.
A Life of Luxury: Tea, Treats and Fine Dining
The documentary highlights the tender, domestic side of Hercules's life with the Robins. He was a creature of refined habits, drinking his morning tea from a mug and sitting at the table to blow out his birthday cake candles. Maggie Robin, 74, revealed his surprisingly discerning palate, making regular 20-mile trips to Marks & Spencer for his favourite foods.
His daily menu was vast, starting with a whole bloomer loaf, beans, four eggs, and coffee with evaporated milk. He enjoyed curry and spaghetti, but his favourite dinner was ox heart with carrots and potatoes – and he would reject it if undercooked. Hercules also had a taste for alcohol, particularly a sweet dessert wine or Asti Spumante, though just one glass would make him wobble.
A Lasting Legacy of Love and Loss
The closing moments of the documentary are deeply moving, reflecting on the end of an era. Hercules died in 2002 at the age of 25 and is buried on the Isle of North Uist in the Outer Hebrides, where a statue stands in his memory. In a final testament to their unique bond, Andy Robin, who died in 2019 aged 84, was laid to rest beside his beloved bear.
The BBC2 film, which aired on Tuesday night and previously on BBC Scotland, focuses not just on the news headlines and chat show appearances, but on the profound, familial love at the heart of this wildest of tales. It confirms that the legend of Hercules, the gentle giant with a sweet tooth and a star quality, is one that truly bears repeating.
