living in courage
living in courage
   

Christian the Lion – Reunion with John Rendall & Ace Berg

July 16th, 2008 | by Debra Oakland |

John Rendall and Ace Berg found a cub for sale at Harrod’s in a cramped space. They bought the cub and named him Christian. They played with Christian on the grounds of a church until he became to big to keep at home. The introduced him back into the wild of Africa.
One year later they went to see Christian in the wild. They were told that the lion was wild now, the head of his own pride and would not remember them. Here is their courageous story.

 

Share/Bookmark

 

Tags: , , , , , , , ,


  1. 140 Responses to “Christian the Lion – Reunion with John Rendall & Ace Berg”

  2. By Pat Wolfe on Jul 18, 2008 | Reply

    This is so beautiful!

  3. By Lynn Meadows on Jul 23, 2008 | Reply

    Beautiful,it fills my heart with such happiness. After all of the years that have passed, the sheer and utter joy and happiness that clearly felt from Christian, John and Ace come right into my heart. God Bless you all!!

  4. By Tinette on Jul 26, 2008 | Reply

    Someone emailed this to me…

    I am not usually this touched, but was very touched by this reunion.

    does anyone know where Randell and Berg is now?

  5. By Kate on Jul 29, 2008 | Reply

    Randall and Bourke will be on NBC’s Today Show on W, 7/30.

  6. By Nancy Parker on Jul 29, 2008 | Reply

    I have never before been so touched and moved by anything as I was by this story; how happy Christian was to see Ace and John again, I could not stop crying. This goes to show us how the power of Love can reach all creatures of this world. What has happened to Christian, Ace and John? Please update us on this wonderful story.

  7. By Martine on Jul 29, 2008 | Reply

    I would like to know where they are and what they are doing now too. The blonde man looks familiar – which one is he?

  8. By Martine on Jul 29, 2008 | Reply

    How long do lion’s live?

  9. By rebeka moore on Jul 30, 2008 | Reply

    Today, Ace Bourke is a museum curator in Australia. John Rendall is a trustee of the George Adamson Wildlife Trust, an organization actively involved in preserving African wildlife. The organization, according to Rendall, is part of Christian’s legacy. (For those in the US, Rendall recommends the site WildlifeNow.com.)

  10. By Kim on Jul 31, 2008 | Reply

    Does anyone know which guy is Ace Bourke? Is he the dark haired one or the blonde in the Khaki shirt? Thanks.

  11. By s martin on Jul 31, 2008 | Reply

    Ace Bourke is the Blonde in the Khaki shirt. I love these two men!!!

  12. By Paola on Aug 1, 2008 | Reply

    I love this !!! iwant more info about the story of these friends, a very emotional story i love it so much. this really shows love.

  13. By Barbara Miller-Stacey on Aug 1, 2008 | Reply

    I too was entralled by the recent video posted on “You Tube” of the Reunion with Christian. It tugged at my heartstrings….upon further reading the site and viewing the entire documentary I followed with great interest George Adamson, Ace Bourke and John Rendall. They made the ultimate sacrifice in allowing Christian to be released back into the wild and letting him be a lion. I felt the strong bond these two young men had forged with Christian and the devotion and love Christian displayed when he was reunited with his boys. What a wonderful story…..sadly the two commentators of the American Today Show did little preparation in asking questions that were relevant, educational or even interesting and prefaced the interview with insulting dribble. It would have be great if Ms. Vierra had mentioned George Adamson, who gave his life for his charges, or the Kora Preserve, and the George Adamson Wildlife Trust. Mereith, lions in the wild live between 7 and 12 years….but as Rendall and Bourke added…..Christian’s offspring and legacy live on. I doubt if she “got it” for all the snickering in the background. THANK YOU gentlemen for sharing Christian’s story with the world.

  14. By Concetta on Aug 2, 2008 | Reply

    What an extraordinary story and such a beautiful one. There should be more Johns, Bourkes, Bergs and Adamsons in this world – it would be such a better place!!

  15. By Vicki on Aug 2, 2008 | Reply

    So moving – thankyou to my friend in Skye who shared it with me x

  16. By Candy on Aug 2, 2008 | Reply

    This is truly a beautiful story and made me cry with emotion. The sheer joy on the faces of Rendell and Bourke were wonderful to see, and that split second when you can see Christian recognise them is astounding.
    Such an inspiration at a time when there’s such cruelty and sadness in life. Wonderful

  17. By Deborah on Aug 2, 2008 | Reply

    Ace Bourke (who they mistakenly refer to as Ace Berg) is the dark haired guy. John Rendall is the blonde. I did not know who was who until I saw them interviewed on the Today Show on NBC in U.S. Really nice guys.

  18. By Deborah on Aug 2, 2008 | Reply

    By the way, John and Ace wrote a book back in the 70′s called “A Lion Called Christian”. From what I hear, it may be re-released very soon!

  19. By Ashley on Aug 4, 2008 | Reply

    Actually, Ace is the blond man. John Rendall has dark hair.

  20. By Linda on Aug 5, 2008 | Reply

    Here are two links to an interview John and Ace did last week in Australia. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. What an amazing and beautiful story. I just ordered the book by George Adamson called The Pride and Joy. Hope to get it next week. Also hoping for re-release the book by John and Ace. I would love to have that also. If anyone hears if it will be released soon, please let us know.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItC5Tg_mU_o

    http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=JfkAnEGCHCc

  21. By Deborah on Aug 5, 2008 | Reply

    Ashley…actually John Rendall is the blonde. If you watch the Today Show interview online, you will see that when both he and Ace are speaking to the host of The Today Show.

  22. By Deborah on Aug 5, 2008 | Reply

    OOPS…my mistake…Ashley is right. John has dark hair in video, Ace has blonde. Sorry.

  23. By Linda Sauer on Aug 6, 2008 | Reply

    Attached are two links of an interview John and Ace did last week in Australia. I hope you enjoy it, as much as I have. They are two amazing men. The story is so heart warming and just beautiful to watch. It is certainly a tear jerker….. I have just ordered the book, The PRIDE and JOY by George Adamson. I should get it next week. I can hardly wait to start reading it. If anyone knows if they are going to re-release the book written by John and Ace, please let me know. I would also love to have a copy of it.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItC5Tg_mU_o

    http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=JfkAnEGCHCc

  24. By Kelly Sali on Aug 17, 2008 | Reply

    Here is a link to a way better interview with Ace and John, the NBC people sure buggered that interview in Australia.
    http://www.facekitty.com/2008/08/whatever-happened-to-christian.html

  25. By marla on Aug 23, 2008 | Reply

    Christian was given complete and unconditional love and because of that love so early on Christian was able to bring that love to his pride and all those who knew him. If there is a lesson in this story – aside from the clear evidence that animals can be feeling, loving creatures, it is that love transcends all boundaries and when you are loved you can give love — Lions, humans, all living creatures.

  26. By Linda on Aug 24, 2008 | Reply

    I just completed reading the book A Lion Named Christian by John Rendall and Ace Bourke. I was able to get it through my local library. It was just amazing. I’m also reading George Adamson’s book, My Pride and Joy. Last week, I received the DVD from the Born Free Foundation,Christian The Lion at World’s End. I’m going to watch it with my 90 year old mother. As you can see I can’t get enough about this story. Kelly thanks for the link to the interview from Australia. It’s so much better than the one I previously had. Alos, the interview was alot better than the one from the Today Show. Marla, I concur with your sentiments.

  27. By Laurie on Sep 2, 2008 | Reply

    I saw this for the first time last Friday and stayed up until 2 in the morning watching it over and over. Then I watched all the different variations on YouTube including the entire Christian the Lion movie that the clips came from. I was so moved. This is proof positive that animals have souls that some of us have always known but how else could he have known they were coming (if you watch some of the other films they tell how he hadn’t been seen in a while and then the night before the guys showed up Christian and his pride were in the area. Kind of like some of us knowing that when the phone rings it’s our mother on the other end, pick it up and there she is! I loved how Christian immediately remembered that Ace was the one who used to invite him to jump into his arms and so he did it time and again. That says to me that he loved that little game he played with Ace. What I also love is that smile of Ace’s. That man has the sweetest soul. Then when I heard him speak on the recent interviews I knew he was indeed a very sweet sensitive patient person you could tell from his manner. Strangely I want to know more about Ace and John’s lives because something like that experience with Christian has to affect one’s life for the better.

    And didn’t that final photo of Christian with George that they showed in some of the interviews, showed what a handsome cat he turned into and he still had that friendly look to his face. I’m still in awe! Of course I love my little kitties so it might have something to do with it!

  28. By Debra Oakland on Sep 3, 2008 | Reply

    Laurie,

    Thank you for this moving and heartfelt post. People all over the world seem to gravitate towards this story. Many people leave posts here conversing about Christian, Ace and John.

    This story shows the true love that exists within all human life, when we trust in that love and are able to reach out and share it.

    Debra Oakland @ Living in Courage

  29. By Sham on Sep 10, 2008 | Reply

    I think, that’s why me must call Lion as a King of the jungle.

    I’m really crying when I saw it. It’s so beautiful!!! No words can describe it.

    I really want to know more about them. I hope somebody will make movie of this Christian The Lion. Somebody should do something so that this story will never lost.

  30. By Kelly Sali on Sep 10, 2008 | Reply

    Actually there is a movie about him and the two gents who adopted him. It’s called Christian- The Lion At World’s End, it is quite fascinating, if you have a broadband connection you can watch it online. Cheers, Kel

  31. By cynthia on Sep 11, 2008 | Reply

    You know words cannot describe when I first saw this You tube. A pen friend sent it. She just assumed everyone had seen it. I told her I had never even heard or seen it. Well, I can tell you I was moved to tears. I cried and cried. What a extraordinary and heartfelt story. What struck me the most, how much this lion loved them. Well, in my eyes they are heros. You know what? They saved Christians life. Even though this story to some seems so long ago, 1969 when they found him in the Harrods dept store. It truly isnt. This type of story will live on. I am grateful it was filmed. Hey, I am sure christian is looking down and saying love you john and ace and thanks for loving and saving me. : ) Have a great life you two. : )

  32. By Linda on Sep 14, 2008 | Reply

    GOOD NEWS…. Sony is looking to bring the story of Christian to the big screen. The studio is currently securing the life rights of Rendall and Bourke and their 1972 book “A Lion Called Christian.” Neal Moritz will produce this project.

  33. By cynthia on Sep 15, 2008 | Reply

    Thanks linda for sharing that. I will would like to have the book.

  34. By Scout on Sep 17, 2008 | Reply

    What a beautiful story!

    Christian is the sweetest lion I’ve ever heard of. He’s adorable!

    I hope that he lived a long life in the wild.

  35. By Linda on Oct 5, 2008 | Reply

    As for as to how long Chistian may of lived. In the book ‘Journey to Freedom’ written by Virginia McKenna, she stated George Adamson beleived Christian had crossed tye nearby Tana River and established a new territory. Although George new saw Christian again, he did receive report of a lion that looked very much like Chistian for several more years in the are to the north.

  36. By AJ on Nov 28, 2008 | Reply

    Wow, that was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. I will try to send copies of the DVD to my nieces and some friends.
    AJ

  37. By Dave on Dec 18, 2008 | Reply

    For those of you that have read the books “My Pride and Joy”, “Journey to Freedom”, and/or “A Lion Called Christian”, I’d like to ask you a question:

    How many reunions were there between Christian, John, and Ace? Based on the Australian TV interview, it sounds like there were at least 3. The first which we’ve all seen on YouTube, several others (?), and then a final one with only John in 1974…after which Christian was never seen again.

    I’m skeptical about what I’ve read through online articles because they seem to blur/merge the details of the first and last reunion visits. I was hoping that someone here might be able to provide accurate information.

    Thank you very much!!

  38. By Diana on Mar 14, 2009 | Reply

    John and Ace saw Christian established in Africa, came back a year later and then once again. Ace didn’t come back in 1974. They don’t know how long he lived because he went further into the wild and George couldn’t keep track of him. Ace and John were on Oprah on Friday. There is a DVD called The Lion at World’s End you can order. It sets out the whole story and shows Christian’s journey. A lovely movie.

  39. By Debra Oakland on Mar 18, 2009 | Reply

    Diana,
    Thank you for sharing this information about Oprah. I have been pleased and amazed at the amount of comments on John, Ace and Christian since my first post. What a wonderful experience it must have been for all three of them.

  40. By Lauren on Mar 23, 2009 | Reply

    Dave, you are correct. Most of the youtube / blog accounts have blurred the facts. The DVD only shows the first reunion which was about nine months (and not a year) after John and Ace left Christian with George. This is the reunion which is posted across Youtube in 1972. They then returned one further time in 1974 (funnily enough footage has now surfaced pf this and made its debut today on UK television (23 Mar 2009)). This reunion is the telepathic reunion whereby Christian, now wild with his own pride including cubs returns to the camp the night before the men arrive and stays with them for a day and a night, even sleeping with them, only for his wife to be a little disgruntled when he returns. After that, he is heard mating a few months later and there are a couple of sightings by George but then he disappears and does not return to the camp (George stops counting after 97 days). As George never heard of any trophy-killing stories of a huge lion being poached/killed, it is thought he lived out the rest of his days naturally, dying of old age or in combat with other wild lions.

  41. By Sharon on Mar 23, 2009 | Reply

    I have to admit when I first saw this youtube video, I cried and cried for 3 days. Couldn’t get the sentiment out of my mind and Whitney Houston’s song in the background didn’t help me out either. It is a beautiful thing these two young men did for that lion, but what made me sad was that they had to leave him to be made wild after having been tame since a cub. What must he have felt when they finally left him alone with George, and then to come back to see him several months later and to see the excitement in Christian’s face and actions can only make me a happy sad. It turned out well, but I feel animals have souls also, because they truly feel pain, loneliness, sadness, etc.
    and hopefully this phenomenon will bring this thinking to the forefront for people who don’t let mistreatment of animals bother them. I have been moved to give to the trust that George Adamson has in his name and wish I could give more. Oh, if only all these rich people would let go of some of their money for such causes, wouldn’t wildlife be better off for it? Sorry to drabble on so, but this has moved me more than anything else has in a long, long time. Have ordered the book, the children’s book and the DVD. Can’t wait to get them. Hope I am not brought to such teariness while reading and watching the whole story. Thank you for letting me share these comments.

  42. By Tina on Mar 24, 2009 | Reply

    I lived in chelsea as a kid and actually met christian, it was amazing, one morning walking pass the shop sophistocat, I spotted a lion cub in the window, i ran home to get my brother and sister as i couldn’t believe my eyes. we stopped by that shop most afternoons after school to see christian in fact most of the kids around the worlds end hung around the shop to see the lion cub. When I received the youtube link through an email from a friend I was delighted to see what happened to christian. Just watched the full lenghth story on channel 5, wonderful!!

  43. By Katie on Mar 24, 2009 | Reply

    This is such an amazing story! I have just finished reading the revised book and would happily recommend it to anyone who is, like myself, a fan of Christian and his story. Ace and John have their own website (see above) which has regular updates on the continuing journey of Christian as well as on themselves. Definately worth having a look at!

  44. By Debra Oakland on Mar 24, 2009 | Reply

    Sharon, thank you for sharing your comments with us here at Living In Courage Online. The story has touched people around the world by showing the true power of love, no matter what form we exist in on this earth.

  45. By Debra Oakland on Mar 24, 2009 | Reply

    What a wonderful experience for a child to have! You are blessed to have seen Christian. An experience I am sure you will never forget. I had the pleasure of watching Oprah recently where they showed old footage for the first time.

  46. By patti on Mar 25, 2009 | Reply

    I actually bought a wardrobe from the shop (and the guys delivered it)but I didnt see Christian alas, it was only afterwards when I read their first book I discovered he was there at the shop(he must have been dozing upstairs/downstairs at the time!)and was totally gutted I’d missed seeing him. I’d forgotten all about him when I came across this clip on Youtube by accident whilst looking for clips of lions to show my cat (he loves tv and animal programmes in particular!). These two guys deserve recognition of some sort for what they did, it must have been a terrible wrench for them to give him up, though that must have also been tempered with relief too as he was getting too big for safety and if anything had gone wrong then they would have been the villains of the piece and the press would have given them a truly hard time. They have brought so much attention to the wildlife cause and whoever was responsible for putting that first clip on YouTube, thank you! Yes, love can indeed conquer all.

  47. By Kim on Mar 25, 2009 | Reply

    I am relieved to see that I am not the only person who was reduced to real tears by this story (which has not happened in a long time) and the video in particular. Although the ending seems the best it could possibly be for Christian, my tears are not “happy” tears, they are “sad” tears, and I think this is because Ace and John had to “let go” and it seems so awful that when there is so much love there between them. It is such a shame that there was no “middle way” that would have let them stay in touch but let Christian go free. At this point, three days after seeing the video, like Sharon, I am still a wreck, but it is some comfort to see I am not the only one.

  48. By Karen on Mar 28, 2009 | Reply

    This is one of the most wonderful, moving and heartwarming stories I have ever heard/seen in all my life. Thank-you to John and Ace for allowing us all to be familiar with this beautiful boy Christian.
    I wish you both all the success in the world, you desserve it.
    Special Thanks and Love, Karen. W. x

  49. By Karen on Mar 28, 2009 | Reply

    This is the most wonderful, moving and heartwarming stories I have ever heard of / seen in my life. Thank-you SO much John and Ace for sharing this with us and allowing us all to be familiar with this beautiful boy, Chistian. I wish you both all the very best for the future, having shown such love, devotion and kindness to this beautiful creaure, you deserve only the best.
    With Love and thanks. Karen L Walters.

  50. By Tony on Mar 29, 2009 | Reply

    This makes me want to leave the city and go and work on a conservation site for lions.

  51. By dagmar on Mar 30, 2009 | Reply

    I also would like to learn more about John and Ace after the release of christian to today. Cant stop crying about this clip. H ave seen almost every interview going. Hope to see alot of money raised for this cause.

  52. By Gaby on Apr 3, 2009 | Reply

    I would like to know why these guys didn’t at least try to locate or look after Christian in that National Park where he was believed to be? I, as a simple pet owner, couldn’t live with the uncertanty of not knowing what happened with him? I understand the enourmosity of such a search but this far I didn’t hear of any indication that there would have been any attempt made. I’m hooked on the love Christian displayed toward these guys, unconditionally. I’m worried that Christian was placed in a nearly impossible situation when he had to fight alone for his bare existance without the support of a pride or another male lion.

  53. By jenny walker on Apr 5, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Tinette,
    John is living in London and he emails me now and again as I had ‘Boy’ the male lion that became firm friends with Christian

  54. By Kim G. on Apr 6, 2009 | Reply

    Like many of you fellow animal lovers, I am completely obsessed with this wonderful, joyous story. I ordered a DVD made from a documentary about Christian made by one of the stars of Born Free. It is different than the excellent new show played on Animal Planet Sunday, April 5. I’ve also just read the new release of “A Lion Called Christian”, written by John and Ace and updated in 2009. I also got a book mentioned in their book entitled “The Great Safari”, about the lives of George and Joy Adamson. I will later get the book “My Pride and Joy” by Mr. Adamson from our library. The entire story is one of unconditional, unabashed, true, unhidden affection and caring. Quite amazing and inspiring. I truly believe we have no idea how much intelligence and love animals are capable of, because of how poorly they are usually treated. And also because we have no way to accurately measure their smarts. I also recommend a book by the animal behaviorist Temple Grandin, Phd. called “Animals in Translation.” Bless all of you for your gentle hearts. May you all know love such as John and Ace had with their special lion.

  55. By Kim G. on Apr 7, 2009 | Reply

    And I finally figured out why I am obsessed with the story. It reminds me, unfortunately, of all the animals I have had to leave in my life, and their responses when I left them, or saw them again. I left my dog with my mom while getting a divorce and she got so excited seeing me each time I visited, and then eventually resigned herself to the fact I wasn’t taking her home. (I was able to after several months, but it was so sad seeing her lose hope.) I gave away two precious cats because my fiance didn’t like them in the house. I never found out what happened to them, as the family gave them away and wouldn’t tell me where they went. The guilt is tremendous! I can only pray that I and people who’ve been in similar circumstances know the presence of a Saviour who forgives all when we ask. It’s the only thing that helps forgive ourselves. Love to all, Kim

  56. By jeanii on Apr 7, 2009 | Reply

    Animal Planet has run a 1 hr documentary on Christian and the 2 men. It’s very heartwarming and well done. I DVR’d it and have it saved forever. Those 2 men have alot to feel proud of in giving this lion back his life in his own environment. Sad though because Lions only live about 15 yrs in the wild and 20+ in captivity. Better to live a short and happier, FREE life, than caged & longer.

  57. By Kim G. on Apr 8, 2009 | Reply

    Yes, Jeanii, you are right. And the latter pictures of Christian at age 3 show him still smiling and looking very content, indeed. I am a little confused, too, about the dates. The updated book “A Lion Called Christian”, says he moved north of the Kora camp, across the Tana River and possibly into a national park sometime in early 1973. But I’ve heard on two interviews, John Rendell saying he went to Africa in 1974 and saw Christian then. Anybody have clarification? They are on “The View” tomorrow, April 9.

    Kim

  58. By jeanii on Apr 10, 2009 | Reply

    Good Morning Debra & Everyone.
    I would like to start out with I found your website by accident and have been reading through it. I almost feel like God directed me to it when I did a search on Christian the other night. It is strange how your website title fits into my life as well. I shall continue to enjoy this site and thank you for having it.
    John & Ace were on The View. I had taped it and then only watched their segment. I think it was Whoopi who asked something about Christian today and they answered with Christian would not have lived more than 10 years in the wild. Although I knew the life span it still saddened me to hear it. I would like to add that I saw the youtube video about 2 years ago and have been obsessed with Christian ever since. If I hear anything about them or Christian being on TV I must watch it. I searched all over the internet back then because I had read something about an older movie done on VCR tape available. I did find it and it had been converted to DVD. Actually its 10 children’s movies on 5 discs. It’s called 10 KIDS FAVORITE ANIMAL MOVIES. If you type that exact title in you will find it for sale at many websites for as little as $1.00. I’ve been told you can find it in dollar stores. I did go out and searched my local ones, lol, but none. I found it online and paid about $20, not bad for 10 movies. Anyway it’s the original movie and well worth watching. The beginning of it is hysterical. Opens with Bill Travers & Virginia McKenna shopping. There are many of these 10 Kids Favorite Movies DVD’s out there with different stories on them. Make sure it has CHRISTIAN THE LION, LIL SCRATCH, etc included. Amazon does have it too. As of today only 2 left there. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000950VD/ref=cm_cr_asin_lnk
    I so wish I could stop crying when I watch anything about Christian’s life story or anything animal related. I so love animals and I envy those here who were so lucky to have come in contact with those 2 men & Christian the Lion!

  59. By jeanii on Apr 10, 2009 | Reply

    Kim, I don’t remember the dates, but I do know they went to see Christian 2 times, approx 1 year apart. I’ve seen so many interviews that I get confused too. Next time I watch the documentary I will pay better attention. First I need to dry up my tear ducts, lol.

  60. By Kim G. on Apr 10, 2009 | Reply

    I hear you, Jeanii. I was glad to finally figure out what the exact emotion was from seeing the video. It’s one of those things that can change people’s hearts and minds about animals. I, too, did searches for Christian. There are other great books about people and the animals that loved them out there I plan to read. Dewey, the Library Cat is great. There’s one about a barn owl that’s recent..and Merle’s Door about a dog in Wyoming. I’m reading The Great Safari about the Adamson’s tumultuous relationship right now. God Bless and Happy Easter to everyone.

  61. By Kim G. on Apr 10, 2009 | Reply

    “Wesley the Owl” is the title. You can read excerpts on amazon.com. An MIT student was given an injured four-day old barn owl from the biology lab before it’s eyes had opened. It imprinted on her and would screech if she ever left the room. She had him for nineteen years and tells an amazing story of his ability to sense moods and understand language.

  62. By Kim G. on Apr 10, 2009 | Reply

    I’m sorry.. Cal Tech student.

  63. By Lisa on Apr 13, 2009 | Reply

    I seen this video about a year ago and teared up at the beauty of it but then i seen the documentary on animal planet last week and have been a wreck ever since and burst into tears throughout the day when i think about this lion that touched so many hearts had a tragic end.Their comming up with a story that their hoping Christian made his own territory somewhere else and eventually had a pride of his own for the reasoning for his leaving,but how the heck does a lone lion get his own territory against prides of african wild lions and battling them and avoiding pouchers ect,now their making him into a super hero lion and trying to give this story a make beleive end,theres no proof of him ever being alive after he dissapeared,once he dissappeared that was it,theres no realization to him being able to make it alone and why would he want to leave the comfort of what territory he had by georges camp and what makes no sense what so ever is why he would leave the pride he had,all his lions always came back to see him,all of them!,it was in christians character to want to be around his human friend from time to time too.In the reunion video at the end you see the two lionesses Mona and Lisa and the cub named Super Cub,that was Christians pride but he did not leave with his pride in fact Super Cub is buried next to Georges brother and George is buried next to Boy and Elsa.Do a web search on george adamson,what an amazing life he had and youll see more pictures of him with his lions,but ive been so heartbroken after seeing the documentary and it makes the video that much more heartbreaking now that i know that Christian was never seen again after the age of 3.The only comfort i have is at least he had a happy life the short time he had.

  64. By Loretta Mobley on Apr 14, 2009 | Reply

    I am so obsessed by Christian and his story, and I watch the video every chance I get. I also purchased the book and have read it twice. What a beautiful love story. I try not to think that he may not have lived to be very old, but then again, he did not have to be locked up. I am hoping he had a long happy life.

  65. By Kim G. on Apr 14, 2009 | Reply

    Dear Lisa, your kind, gentle heart is wondering about something of which we have no surety. I read in two different accounts that George had reports of a lion very much like Christian spotted for several years north of the Tana River. That’s what I am hoping, as well. For several days I thought as you did, that Christian’s overjoyed emotions at seeing Ace and John could partly be due to a “Oh, good, they’re back. I can go home now” relief. I can’t go there or I would be miserable. Instead, I listen to John and Ace describe how they had not a moment’s doubt this was the best life for Christian. Yes, he had George for several years, but since his natural lion instincts were starting to take over (he’d pinned down both George and his assistant Tony, though had quickly let them go), and he survived those first few years, I have to assume he found his way in the wild. They never heard of a lion that size being poached, so that’s good. Please let your beautiful heart be at peace. My thought is maybe we will all be allowed to meet Christian and hear his story in the hereafter.

  66. By jeanii on Apr 17, 2009 | Reply

    Reading these posts here just bring me to tears too. Not a day goes by that I don’t see a lion’s picture on TV in a commercial that always brings back to me the story of Christian. I often wonder what is wrong with me that Christian and ALL animals have such a effect on my life, bring me to tears or laughter, but most of all the abuse of animals just makes me so angry. When I read someones comment that “they are only animals” I cringe, I hate, I cry. Everytime I see those commercials on TV for abandoned animals, their sad faces I cry. Am I losing ‘it’? I think so…….

  67. By jeanii on Apr 17, 2009 | Reply

    One more thing, those Sarah McLachlan SPCA commercials give me have a meltdown. I have to change the channel once I hear the start of her music on them.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSRANlNx36w&feature=related

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gspElv1yvc

  68. By Kim G. on Apr 17, 2009 | Reply

    Dear Jeanii, a patient of mine (a pastor), told me once I have a “gentle heart”. That’s true for you, too. We may never understand why others do what they do or say what they do. What I’ve found helps is to do what you can to help the animals and the workers who tirelessly strive to give them better lives. I donate to several animal organizations. My favorites now are animalsasia.org and Fund for Animals and my local shelter. There’s a reason our God gave you that sensitivity. Probably the easiest thing we can all do is encourage spay and neuter programs to prevent unwanted litters!

  69. By jeanii on Apr 17, 2009 | Reply

    Kim, You and I are to much alike.
    I cannot even begin to tell you how much money I give to the animal orgs. I also place physical orders of cat & pet food, goodies, and toys from JB Pet and have them sent directly to the Humane Societies. Recently I sponsored a US Soldiers Iraq dog to be able to come home with him.
    One more thing, I save all my old blankets, towels, etc and bring them to the Humane Society. Last time I did that I came home with another dog so now my husband drives them over for me, lol. If my husband dies before me I plan on redoing my will to leave all that I own to the organizations. Right now I have 3 ‘saved’ dogs but if I get anymore I will take on a needy, older dog. I try to promote people to save a pet instead of supplying the puppy mills. I used to get puppies but have decided the older dogs need to spend their last few days or years in a happy home. I so wish I could do more.

  70. By Kate on Apr 17, 2009 | Reply

    Katie, you posted that Ace and John have their own website. Can you please tell me what it is? Also, for everyone, I saw a video that had Ace and John recently against a rocky background, but it was removed from where I found it. Anyone know where this can be played? Thanks (BTW my rescue dog is laying under the desk as I write this)

  71. By Kim G. on Apr 17, 2009 | Reply

    Jeanni, the animals (and the people, too, I’m sure) in your life are indeed fortunate. I smiled and smiled reading your post. We do what we can, don’t we? I also have four rescued animals (3 cats, one was feral and will only come to me, and one dear 15-year-old shelter terrier mix. You are making a tremendous difference in your community and to your sponsored organizations. Keep that gentle heart and smile as much as you can. I believe the whole purpose of life is to show and learn love. You are doing that. Bless you.

  72. By Kim G. on Apr 19, 2009 | Reply

    Kate, Animal Planet has a bunch of Christian videos, all taken from their excellent documentary a couple weeks ago. Here is one link that should take you to the correct page. You’ll see one thumbnail photo of a grown up Christian with full mane sitting sideways on a rock. He is magnificent. That shot is also the last photo in the book “A Lion Called Christian”. http://animal.discovery.com/videos/a-lion-called-christian-the-story-of-christian-the-lion

  73. By jeanii on Apr 20, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Kim,
    Bless you and your family, and to all the people who take care of or help out our precious creatures.
    Thanks for the link for Christian. I will go check it out.

  74. By jeanii on Apr 20, 2009 | Reply

    ALERT! ALERT! ALERT!

    The movie is on again on 5/8/09

    ON TV: A LION CALLED CHRISTIAN
    Friday, May 8, at 10 PM e/p.

    A Lion Called Christian tells the dramatic story of YouTube sensation Christian the Lion. Find out more »

    http://animal.discovery.com/tv/christian-the-lion/

  75. By Kim G. on Apr 20, 2009 | Reply

    Great news! Thank you, Jeanii!!

  76. By Kate on May 1, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Kim, have you seen the video I referred to in my earlier post. A current Ace and John are in a setting with a rocky background. I was hoping it was another new interview but can’t find it anywhere since the first time I saw it and it said the video was pulled.

  77. By Kim G. on May 1, 2009 | Reply

    Kate, I don’t think so! I’ve seen the interview they did on Australian TV and the little ones they did on the View and Today and then the long movie Jeanii references which will be repeated on Animal Planet. That one intersperses old footage with lots and lots of new interviews with several people who knew Christian. I highly recommend it. Let us know if you run across your video again! Thanks.

  78. By Kim G. on May 1, 2009 | Reply

    Forgive me if someone has already posted this site, but this is the site authored by Ace and John themselves! They just added some news about the book tour in Australia.

    http://www.alioncalledchristian.com/

  79. By jeanii on May 2, 2009 | Reply

    Kim,
    Is there a home page for the link you posted? I checked out your link and only able to view the one page. Do they have any other links with pictures, etc.
    I wish they offered a autographed version of their book for those of us that are not able to go to one of their book signings.

  80. By Kim G. on May 2, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Jeanii, I have only seen the one page on Ace and John’s website.

    There was a short additional video on Animal Planet today about 3:00 pm central time! It wasn’t listed in the guide and was at the end of another program. I only caught the last six minutes, but it had condensed the whole story and had a few new words by John and by a lion trainer, who was saying Christian’s behavior could have suddenly changed to dangerous and that you can never fully trust a wild animal. That’s what makes Christian’s welcome to John and Ace so astounding. It STILL floors me each time I see it, with sound or not :) .

  81. By Rachael Fox on May 3, 2009 | Reply

    I haven’t been able to stop watching the ‘Christian’ Re-union video for the last two days, all day. I watch it over and over again and every single time I end up with a river of tears streaming down my face. You could tell from Christian’s body language that he was never going to attack John and Ace. As soon as he realized it was them you could instantly see the love in his eyes. To John and Ace, at the time you probably didn’t realise it but you have probably made the world a better place and made people look inside their hearts and respect animals of all kinds. To Christian, THANK YOU. You were absolutely gorgeous and have done more for this world than you could ever know.

  82. By Kim G. on May 3, 2009 | Reply

    Well said, Rachael.

  83. By Lisa on May 4, 2009 | Reply

    Whats being replayed on Animal Planet Friday at 10 is A Lion Called Christian,it’s not a movie but an hour documentary of John and Ace telling the story and showing additonal video footgae and pics that aren’t on youtube that people haven’t seen yet,i seen it when it first aired a month ago and get your kleenex’s ready,i literally cried for two weeks every time i thought about it,also for more of Christian and George’s story (thats the older gentleman you see for a brief second at the end of the video everyone has falling in love with when Christian runs and hugs his original owners)but Christian was giving to George for rehabilitation to be released into the wild and theres so many beautiful pics of Christian with George and George with his other lions and pics of his camping quarters ect. that his friends submitted for this website in honor of George oh! and don’t forget to read the actually letters George wrote to his friend that his friend submitted,you really get a feel of who george was and his relationship with his lions,theres a section dedicated just about Christian,you all need to go check out this website it’s called Fatheroflions.org

  84. By Kim G. on May 5, 2009 | Reply

    Thank you, Lisa! More to feed our hearts hungry for Christian information!

  85. By Kim G. on May 5, 2009 | Reply

    What an amazing site. Thanks again, Lisa, for posting it. Here is one of my favorite lines: “George showed the world what man could do with Love.” Beautiful photos of the Kora camp on later visits and the graves of George, his brother, Supercub and Boy.

  86. By jeanii on May 6, 2009 | Reply

    Here is where you can buy the movie. You can find it on many websites and also in some of those dollar stores. I think this DVD has 10 different animal movies in it so its worth the price. I posted this link above, not sure if everyone saw it.

    http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000950VD/ref=cm_cr_asin_lnk

  87. By Kim G. on May 10, 2009 | Reply

    Happy Mother’s Day to all you beautiful souls.

    I’m following a story where all we animal lovers can make a difference. A group called Furry Friends Farm is attempting to rescue dozens of stray dogs that had been dumped on a remote island in Malaysia by the villagers of the island nearby. Half have died of starvation. The villagers just wanted them out of their hair. Here is a link to a story which was widely reported last week (msn, yahoo, aol). I have an email if you want to contribute, which I did. tvsmith@gmail.com. Love to all.

    http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090507/ap_on_re_as/as_malaysia_canine_castaways

  88. By Kath on May 10, 2009 | Reply

    I would hate to think what might have happened to Christian if he had not been purchased by John and Ace. They are two remarkable people who truly set out to do the right thing by a wonderful lion cub. I take my hat off to them and we should all learn a lesson on how we should treat animals.

  89. By Hannah Harris on May 17, 2009 | Reply

    I saw this on the news a few months ago but really didn’t follow it ’til recently on You Tube.My sound is dead on my old puter so can’t get what the men are saying in all those TV interviews.I wish I had seen them.I bought the book by Ace and John the other day.I read that John lives in London part of the year and has 3 grown kids.I guess Ace never married.Boy,he was cute when he was younger and Christian adored Ace the most.I do hope Christian had a long happy life.If he had been my pet,I would have put him in a big zoo like in San Diego or in a sanctuary that had plenty of land.San Diego did have a huge wildlife park that was pretty big.
    http://www.sandiego.org/listing/Visitors/2985

    The 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park is an expansive wildlife sanctuary operated by the not-for-profit Zoological Society of San Diego. It is home to more than 3,500 animals representing 429 species, including the largest crash of rhinos in any zoological facility, and one of the only California condor exhibits in the world. Naturalist habitats provide an opportunity to view animals lounging in natural settings, while unique construction at areas like Lion Camp allow you to come face-to-face with Africa’s biggest cat.

    No telling where Christian would have ended up if Ace and John didn’t send him to Kenya.

  90. By Hannah Harris on May 20, 2009 | Reply

    Lisa,

    I read the book last night and remember reading online that Geo Adamson said before he died that he heard Christian moved to a safer area up river in Meru National Park and that he heard that the lion may have gotten up to 500 lbs.He also heard of no big lions being shot or killed either so maybe Christian did make it to an old ripe age after Geo A died.This would be 1989.Ace and John did make the right decision as they released the lion at a park that was somewhat protected.

    When you look at all the tapes/clips,anyone connected with Kora Park is dead.Maybe Christian got lucky coz he left Kora Park?

  91. By abagale on Jun 4, 2009 | Reply

    Hi,

    We have just added your latest post “Christian the Lion – Reunion with John Rendall & Ace Berg” to our Directory of Pets . You can check the inclusion of the post here . We are delighted to invite you to submit all your future posts to the directory and get a huge base of visitors to your website.

    Warm Regards

    Petgarden.info Team

    http://www.petgarden.info

  92. By suzin on Jun 26, 2009 | Reply

    I love Christian. I cry and cry over this , Im really trying to see this story as happy but its so sad he had to go back to the wild, he was so tamed, loving and funny, I have been really upset since I have seen this, Christian is always on my mind. I have brought the book but cant bring myself to read it as I end up balling my eyes out

  93. By suzin on Jun 26, 2009 | Reply

    Lisa I totally agree with you. I almost thought I wrote your message. I cry abd cry over this, I actually feel sick about it. Christian was so tamed its just so wrong he was put back in the wild. I too think things dont add up. All Georges lions came abck but not Christian??? Typing this Im crying as I dont think he lived this happy life that people like to think he did. That poor poor lion he must have thought everyone abandon him

    bless you Christian you didnt deserve to be left like that

  94. By suzin on Jun 26, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Gaby i agree, this has really had such an emotional effect on me, I cant stop thinking about it…how could they leave him?? My god he was an angel and tamed, too tamed and loved to be put in the wild, he must have wondered what hit him?? And why didnt they look for him, its weird, why did George give up after not seeing him for 97 days,arrghh so many unanswered question, I think too many people are in la la land thinking Christian survived and had this so called happy life, he wasnt born in the wild the poor thing it breaks my heart!!! I have this funny inner feeling, that Ace looks sad in the recent interviews almost like he regret what they did, dont get me wrong I know they loved Christian but maybe in hindsight it was a mistake to put him in the wild. They brought him up to be gentle and loved then they out him back in the wild to fight for food, and to stay alive…hearbreaking, a sanctuary would have been better, Im sure if they put their head together Bill Traver, viginia mckenna and their actors friend could have got money together and built a safe sanctuary for Christian and other rescue animals

  95. By sarah bowing on Jun 28, 2009 | Reply

    It’s as if every animal documentary I have ever seen was unavoidably leading to this near-unbearable tale of how almost breachable is the gap between humans and animals. In watching Christian’s haunting, highly atmospheric story, captured in the grainy colour of the time, there is something about the light and surrounds of that bright, hot and remote place in the Dark Continent of 40 years ago that reaches out as if it were yesterday. I have no doubt Christian’s spirit roams the Kora Reseve/Tana River/Meru Reserve region,borne on the wind and sunlight, I hope peacefully. It is so hard not to believe he felt abandoned and confused but, as John said, on their second visit, Christian “now had lion things to do”. I would like to think this amazing animal can know of his effect on those who think long and often of him; this will sound strange but I wonder
    at the exact moment of his death if, as a young woman, I might have experienced an intense, inexplicable surge of sadness, of longing, of, as it is called, the unbearable lightness of being… Christian’s story has enriched my life immeasurably; I find myself taking solace from his life, thoughts of him lift my soul; he is like Aslan. There is much to be thankful for in experiences such as this. As our lives spin out across the decades, moving us inexorably toward the final homecoming, some things transcend all and the greatest of these surely is Love.

  96. By Carolyn on Jul 4, 2009 | Reply

    I have just gone through all the messages – I am not alone in my feelings for a wonder Lion called Christian – I too have mixed feelings about my darling Christian and often wonder if he felt abandoned by his human family – I often wonder why George did not make a trip out to try and find Christian – even if only to make sure he was OK – or perhaps he could have been put into an animal sanctuary for Lions – I sometimes pray I could dream of Christian’s journey through life – I hope he did not suffer any great pain and that his descendants are in Kora and Meru. I watch the clip every day – several times – there is an outpouring of love for Christian – my Narnia on all the sites. George did not hear of any large Lion being killed by poachers or other lions so I cling to that hope. I want to buy My Pride & Joy by George – he was a great man and the title Baba ya Simba is well deserved. I would have loved to have met him and spent time with his lions. I too donate to WSPA – and have 6 cats and a dog – I also feed three strays in my front garden. I am looking into adopting a Lion or two through the Born Free Foundation – there are several links on the George Adamson website. I am sure these thoughts have gone through Messrs Bourke and Rendall’s mind – John is still involved with wildlife GAWPT, but yes, Ace does sound sad and admits to shedding a few tears for Christian. I like to think Christian is with George and Boy, Elsa and Supercub and the others and also Bill Travers in Paradise.

  97. By jen on Jul 12, 2009 | Reply

    lions live 100 years christian did not make it nor did Elsa in born free, she never made 2. Christian made 3. He did not just disappear from his Africa trainer, tame animials die very young in the wild.

  98. By jen on Jul 13, 2009 | Reply

    I just saw Christian the lion on TV. I was so moved by it. I feel in love with Christian the lion. I think you are all ignorant because a lion bought at a pet store that sleeps in your bed and has a pilliow, dog food and is hand raised and goes out in a car on a leash. To dump him in Africa and say your now free because of some lying movie born free is INSANE. If christian had the choice to be FAMOUS in a circus and make movies and live in a natural habitat like DISNEY WORLD or another like it in America and have crowds cheer his name, do you think if he could speek that he would of chose being homeless in Africa to kill for food and to have his face tourn up by a half tame, wild lion to fight to be leader of a pride for some female lions. By the way the lions they chose for him were from the UGLY SCHOOL, he could of got laid in the circus also if that was the issue by a much prettyer lion. He could of been killed in the fight, this is not love on his masters part but an act of pure selfishness. Elsa in born free was dead after only turning a year old, while lions live to be 100. His handsome face all clawed up, changed to be a killer, not the life of fame and fortune. He did not have to go to a zoo, there were other options. I believe he did not just dissappear after their last meeting I believe he was killed. They distroyed the best lion that ever lived. Ask Christian if it was his choice what his answer would of been, we all know the answer. They abondomed him and left him in a foreign country frightned and hungry for females that were available elsewhere.

  99. By jen on Jul 15, 2009 | Reply

    Don’t worry folks Christian got it all back in the end. The bible says the lamb lies down with the lion in heaven. So in heaven he is again tame lying down with his lamb. He is no longer hungry seaching for food or being forced, tying to fight wild male lions for his pride he has his pride, his lamb that Christ gave him. We can not change the ignorant decision his owners made, we can only stand on scripture. Happy ending, some animials do go to heaven and Christian was one of them.

  100. By Hannah Harris on Jul 16, 2009 | Reply

    Elsa died from tick fever.No one knows what happened to Christian.Lions only live like 20/25 years in the wild.They live less longer in zoos.

  101. By Maxine on Jul 17, 2009 | Reply

    Hi everybody! I am so relieved that I am not alone in my love and affection for the cutest, most wonderful lion – Christian. I found out about this miraculous little being about a month and a half ago and ever since I’ve read anything I could find about him. I bought the books and dvds about Christian. There is a great movie out there, called “To walk with Lions” and it tells a wonderful, unforgettable story about George Adamson and Tony Fitzjohn and their life and work at Kora. A lot can be seen and learned from this movie. It is not about Christian but it says a lot about a wonderful man who introduced him into the wild – George Adamson. By reading books and watching the movies about Christian I feel the same as all of you – a deep, profound love and compassion for this remarkable lion. The very thought that such an amazing creature could’ve suffered either because of the poachers or the wild lions makes me cry. I just hope that somehow Christian has managed to find his way into the wild. All lions at the age of 3 usually go and look for the prides to join. So, Christian was just about the right age when he left Kora. In my heart I somehow believe that he has found love and companionship of the other lions and that he won their trust. Prior to leaving Kora, he has already spent almost 3 years in the wilderness and he has learned a lot from George, from his lion-friend Boy and his other lion-companions. Christian has proved that he can learn fast and addjust to any situation. I am sure that he made it successfully into the wild life and being so huge, more than 500 lbs, he must have imposed himself on the other, smaller lions. He probably could not come back to George because he has gone far and marked his new territory. Once a lion creates his territory, he fights for it and defending it, he even dies for it. He does not leave his place. I don’t think Christian could’ve left his new territory and his pride. He became a true lion and embraced all the responsibilities and habits of the life in wilderness. The life at Kora has changed him already and addapted him to the new ways of life. He was no longer a pet from London, but a true, grown lion. The fact that he never stopped loving his human friends doesn’t make him less of a lion, but makes him even more special and proves that lions have a tremendous level of undertanding and feelings of love, loyalty and friendship that can last forever. Yet, he had to go on with his life because there was no mid-way sollution at that time. He had to find his pride and his new territory. He knew it instinctivelly and I am sure that he did it. Even before John’s and Ace’s last visit he used to leave Kora for months and not come back. He must have been searching for a new territory and came to Kora one more time to say goodbye to his dear friends who had raised him. He had telephatic abilities just like so many other lions and must have felt John’s and Ace’s presence at the Kora Reserve. Christian was really smart also and I feel that he has understood that his place was with his own kind in the end. It was too dangerous to cross the Tana River, go back and forth, risk the life because of the poachers and other wild lions around Kora. And because of this risk and the fact that he found a new place, and probably had his own cubs that he protected in the pride, he followed his instincts and stayed at Meru. I think that Christian knew he was always welcome at Kora. If he was unhappy in the wilderness he could have come back. He did not have to leave Kora in 1973, yet he left because it was his instinct that he followed. His nature was reborn in him. He was no longer a slave in the human cage. He was a true lion in the heart of the wilderness and somehow I choose to believe that Christian has found his own way, his purpose and happiness. He became the symbol of the loving bond between the humans and lions. And a living proof that all God’s creatures are individuals, that they have their unique qualities that should be respected. Christian’s legacy is a message of love, respect and freedom. The wild animals should be given a full freedom to live in their natural setting and not in the cages. They are not meant to be the slaves and the puppets of the humans, but they are here to have their own free lives and contribute to this world in their own way. Everything happens for a reason. So did Christian’s brilliant existence. He was a bridge between us and the world of wilderness, a precious gift that showed us how love has no limits and how we should treat all God’s creatures with dignity and respect. God bless John, Ace and George. And God bless our Christian, wherever he might be – hopefully one day we shall be able to have the answers to all our questions and if we truly want to meet Christian in the afterlife, I am sure we will… love is eternal. A soul of the Universe that we all share, a love of God and His creatures, will make us see our little lion at the Heaven’s Gate. God bless you all!

  102. By SHARON KERNS on Jul 21, 2009 | Reply

    THIS IS SO HEARTWARMING, I DONT KNOW WHEN ANYTHING HAS TOUCHED ME SO DEEPLY. WOULD LOVE TO MEET JOHN AND ACE PERSONALLY. I AM SURE CHRISTIAN IS WAITING FOR THEM ON THE OTHER SIDE. WHAT A GREAT RENUNION THAT WILL BE. I ONLY HOPE TO BE A PART OF IT. I WISH THERE WAS MORE LOVE LIKE THAT IN THE WORLD.

  103. By SHARON KERNS on Jul 23, 2009 | Reply

    SINCE I AM NOW SINGLE ,THIS IS MY BEDTIME STORY EVERY NIGHT. IT IS SO COOL TO FEEL THAT LOVE EVERY NIGHT BEFORE I LAY ME DOWN. THIS IS SUCH A WONDERFUL GIFT TO ALL OF US, ESPECIALLY IN OUR SOMETIMES HURTING WORLD.WOULD LOVE IT IF JOHN AND ACE WROTE THEIR BIOGRAPHY. WHAT DID THEIR FAMILIES THINK BY THEM GIVING CHRISTIAN SUCH A HUGE PART OF THEIR LIVES AND SO MUCH LOVE. WOULD LOVE TO KNOW MORE . MORE MORE MORE!!!! LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT!!!!!

  104. By Lisa on Jul 23, 2009 | Reply

    I agree with he should have never been released into the wild especially once their already tame,they won’t even consider releasing a tame animal into the wild now a days because they know the fate and outcome and they find beautiful wild life sanctuarys to put them in,Actress Jessica Biel supports a wild life santuary filled with many tame lions and tigers that were found in captivaty and this sanctuary is amazing! these animlas are living the high life and it set up for them that they have tons and tons of land set up for them like their in the wild but their safe and protected,i would think that if any lion or tiger had the chance to live out a wonderful life of being fed and living in beautiful surroundings and being safe and protected they would prolly take it! these cats in the wild they have to live wildly and kill or be killed because they have no choice! but if given an opportunity for humans to help them and take them in a care for them it just doesn’t come along for them only some lucky ones have made it into these beautiful sanctuarys,according to the sanctuary that Jessica Biel belongs to it says large cats in the wild don’t live a long life but the ones that are raised in captivity do live their 20 to 25 year life span,if any of you know Georges lions never lived a long life and had heart breaking outcomes,Boy manage to live the longest to be 8 but he had to be shot! and poor Christian witnessed it and wouldn’t leave his grave site for days on end,Elsa died at age 5,the other two females that were the in that first group that George was trying to create a pride with Christian and Boy,one was killed by wild lions and the other was killed by crocs entering the river,if you all go to the site dedicated to George Adamson it tells the whole story of Georges and his lions along with many beautiful pictures but even George’s life ended horribly being killed by pouchers himself and his wife was even killed by a bandit,no one human or animal in that whole Born Free saga had a Beautiful peaceful ending it all ended tragically and if you read Georges real letters he wrote to his friends in the states they have published on his website George constantly was worried once he lost track of one of his lions that they most surely he knew had to of been killed by either crocs or pouchers,why would he have thought any different for Christian,i’m sure he told John and Ace he went on to live a wonderful life in efforts not to hurt them and thats the story that stuck.
    Georges website is Fatheroflions.org

  105. By SHARON KERNS on Jul 26, 2009 | Reply

    PLEASE ACE AND JOHN TELL US HOW YOUR FAMILIES WERE FEELING ABOUT YOUR TIME WITH CHRISTIAN.

  106. By SHARON KERNS on Jul 28, 2009 | Reply

    HI AGAIN, DOES ANYONE KNOW HOW JOHN AND ACES PARENTS AND FAMILY REACTED TO THEIR BUYING A LION CUB?? THAT WOULD MAKE AN INTERESTING STORY.

  107. By Hannah Harris on Aug 1, 2009 | Reply

    G A really didn’t go looking for his lions.He rarely left Kora Park.

  108. By SHARON KERNS on Aug 27, 2009 | Reply

    AM I THE ONLY ONE THAT STILL WATCHES IT EVERY NIGHT???

  109. By Hannah Harris on Sep 1, 2009 | Reply

    You may be Sharon but I am sure others also watch it and just don’t know where to post about it.

  110. By SHARON KERNS on Sep 1, 2009 | Reply

    THANKS HANNAH , I WAS WONDERING IF THERE WAS ANYONE OUT THERE!!

  111. By SHARON KERNS on Sep 23, 2009 | Reply

    SAW THE SHOW ABOUT CHRISTIAN ON ANIMAL PLANET TONIGHT , I NEVER TIRE WATCHING IT.

  112. By sonia hernandez on Sep 29, 2009 | Reply

    No you are not losing it. I to have been feeling the very same way
    after I watched the story I cried and cried and cried for a whole week
    and I am still very emotional on this topic. I love animals but ever since I saw Christian the lion, I love them more and respect them more, I wish
    people did the same there would be less animal cruelty.
    John and Ace and Christian were lucky to have had George Adamson
    or who knows what would have become of Christian, he was left in good hands.

  113. By Hannah Harris on Oct 22, 2009 | Reply

    Too bad there were no big sanctuaries back in those days.Christian would have been very happy at the Wild Animal Park in San Diego.

  114. By SHARON KERNS on Oct 22, 2009 | Reply

    I AGREE HANNAH , THAT WOULD HAVE BEEN A GREAT WAY FOR CHRISTIAN TO SPEND HIS LIFE . ACE AND JOHN COULD HAVE STAYED IN TOUCH WITH HIM.

  115. By Hannah on Nov 14, 2009 | Reply

    Sharon,in the book Ace and John did check out a animal park in England but decided not to put C there.I wish they had coz they would be able to visit him from time to time.They still don’t regret their decision but I can see them not wanting to see C locked up like his parents were in a zoo.

  116. By SHARON KERNS on Nov 15, 2009 | Reply

    HANNAH ISNT AMAZING THAT WE SPEND SO MUCH TIME THINKING ABOUT A LION THAT LIVED FORTY YEARS AGO??!! IT IS A STORY THAT STILL TOUCHES MY HEART AND NEVER TIRE READING ABOUT ACE , JOHN, AND CHRISTIAN.

  117. By Manu on Dec 14, 2009 | Reply

    The only thing that will have calming effect with this Lion story is::

    Christian before the 2 visit by Ace and Joan actually didn’t visit the camp for nearly 9 months. And when he visited back again was exactly around the 2 visit by Ace and John.
    So its not surprising that Christian disappeared for years. Also he had his pride of 2 lioness and his cubs to defend from invading Lions. Usually a Lion rules a pride for an average of 4-5 years before being ousted by other Lions.
    The high probability worst fear is Christian and human conflict. The low probability fear is he may have been killed by other lions or killed by those monster crocodile in the river.
    But the more probability would be he ruled at least for 3-4 years before something happened to him.

    BUT GUYS THIS HAPPENS WITH ALL LIONS. CHRISTIAN WAS JUST A FRIEND OF HUMANS AND HE WAS FILMED AND PRESENTED AND IT TOUCHES HEARTS OF PEOPLE. WHAT ABOUT THOSE ANIMALS THAT NEVER HAD CHANCE TO TELL THERE STORY, THAT MAKES ME MORE SAD.

  118. By Manu on Dec 14, 2009 | Reply

    Ah one more thing that truck me today while searching Christian on the net is the statement in Wikipedia by George Adamson” He notes in his book My Pride And Joy that after 97 days, he stopped counting “.

    Now there is a possibility that something might have happened on 97th day to Christian.

    So here is my take::
    Scenario 1: Christian might have been killed by humans or lions on 97th day after George Adamson started counting in his Diary

    Scenario 2: Christian lived at least 3-4 years further ruling his pride and possibly fathering many cubs.

  119. By Hannah on Dec 26, 2009 | Reply

    Manu,GA said in the book by Ace and John that he had not heard of any big lion being killed near Kora or at the Meru River Preserve.They showed the film again today on Animal Planet.Its sad that no one is left at Kora Park.Maybe Christian lived longer than many think coz he left Kora Park.The only human that left Kora Park alive was the Fitzpatrick guy who took over after Stanley died.I’m not that religous but I do hope that Christian is waiting at Rainbow Bridge for Ace and John.

  120. By Carolyn on Jan 11, 2010 | Reply

    Yes, I still watch my darling Christian – though not every night – however, I do think of him every single day and at times I do feel disappointed and worry that he may have been so sad and felt deserted by his human family – I guess there were other options but I would like to think that Ace and John did give it some thought and I so pray Christian lives in Paradise today. According to GA – lions in the wild only live 10-12 years. Love you Christian. Sweet dreams.

  121. By Hannah on Jan 11, 2010 | Reply

    Carolyn,

    Ace and John have said many times that during their last visit with Christian,he didn’t spend that much time with him.The lion wanted to be left alone basically.He had really become a ” wild lion “.I am sure Christian has been in a ” better place ” for the last 30-40 some years.

  122. By SHARON KERNS on Jan 13, 2010 | Reply

    OUR LOVE FOR CHRISTIAN GOES ON AND ON!! STILL LIVE TO WATCH IT ON U TUBE.

  123. By Carolyn on Jan 30, 2010 | Reply

    Thank you Hannah – I like to think he is in a better place today with is old friends Boy, Katania, Mona Lisa and Mona & Lisa, Super Cub, Juma, George and Stanley and also Bill Travers – all gone to Paradise.
    Jen, Lions do not live for 100 years especially in the wild – they may live upto 12 years.
    Will always love Christian – my Aslan, and, look forward to meeting hime in Paradise, when I regain it!!

  124. By Nadia on Feb 4, 2010 | Reply

    I shall take away many elements from this wonderful experience that will impact on the way i live my life today.

    To give chance and opportunity.
    To forge relationships without boundary.
    To demonstrate love and respect.
    To recognise & accept others’ love and respect.
    To give wings, however painful.
    To always hold belief.

  125. By Kate on Feb 13, 2010 | Reply

    I found a short video clip on Youtube of Ace and John giving an inrview that I had never seen or heard before on a program called Sunrise. So I googled “John Rendall” + Sunrise and came up with what must be 10 min or so that I hadn’t heard before. You may have to poke around a little to find the right one. They only had audio but well worth the listen,

  126. By Debra Oakland on Feb 14, 2010 | Reply

    Thanks Kate. I am sure those here who loved Christian will appreciate the tip.

  127. By faz on Feb 14, 2010 | Reply

    I only recently saw the youtube videos about Christian and like most people here I spent at least 3 days look at every news about christian. Since seeing the love this lion has given it made me think more about how selfish I am and I have already made changes in my life and my motto is be brave like a lion and live life to the full.

    I also spend a lot of time to decide if taking christian to Kenya was the right thing to do and I think it was maybe 90% correct.

    Anyway as a muslim I pray and asked God to ensure a resting place for christian and George Adams.

    thanks

  128. By Kim G. on Feb 24, 2010 | Reply

    Kate, I’m listening to that Sunrise Australian radio interview now. Thank you so much for posting it! Great hearing more details of the story.

  129. By Hannah on Mar 26, 2010 | Reply

    Animal Planet ran the story again last night.If it wasn’t for Lisa Adams( a LA student )spotting the story online with the clips of them being reunited with Christian,the story wouldn’t have reached and touched so many.

  130. By Hannah on Mar 26, 2010 | Reply

    I mean Lisa Williams.

  131. By Carolyn on Apr 1, 2010 | Reply

    Thank you Faz for praying for a lovely resting place for Christian and George – I am sure God has taken care of them as they are indeed special. I still watch Christian at least 4 times a week and occasionally watch the dvd I have at home or look at his pictures in my book.

  132. By Carolina on Apr 2, 2010 | Reply

    Maxine & Manu,

    Your posts made me feel so much better. I am hoping beautiful Christian had a happy life and wasn’t killed or agonized while he died wondering where his human companions were when he most needed them.

    As many of you are – I am obsessed with this life story and I think of Christian every single day, running a milliion possible scenarion in my head, tears, joy, sadness. A rollercoaster of emotions invade me every single day. I must be going crazy…

    However, my love and respect for animals might playing a huge part in these constant everyday thought of Christian.

    I also ask myself, how did Ace and John no go back after 1974 just to see if he would return the night before as he did on their last farewell.

    So many questions, thoughts, fears. No one in Kora had a happy ending but maybe Christian did because he was no longer a part of Kora he had left.

    ….but why did he never come back ever. Maxine and Manu give a great explanation. He had established his territory and his pride, he can’t just leave it to hang out with friends….

    You are now in a better place my Christian…

  133. By Luis Puntriano on May 5, 2010 | Reply

    When I was a kid, I read on a Reader’s Digest from 1972 a history about two australian young men who lived in London and purchased a lion cub, and they called him Christian.

    38 years later, on May 3th. 2010 I watched through “Animal Planet” a documental about this.

    I was moved because it was the same history…and I started to remember everything about what I read on that magazine…the same authors, the same lion and the same history.

    It is amazing how the animals could act much better even though the humans about the respect and love they surrender to the humans, I mean, an animal will be your “fan” as long as you love them. Watching the whole documental gave me back this answer. I never thought it was a boom through “youtube” and also to hear some news of this history in my life, however it happened.

    God bless Anthony Bourke and John Rendall for sharing us their outstanding history of an urban baby lion who was settle into the wild life, the place where he came from.

    My best regards for everyone.

    Luis Puntriano. (puntrianov@yahoo.com)

    La Punta, Callao – Perú / South America.

    May 5th. 2010 (14:50 hrs / – 5:00 hrs. GMT).

    Luis Puntriano

  134. By David on May 18, 2010 | Reply

    When I first saw the videos of Christian I was enthralled by such a wonderful animal. He had real personality.I bought all of the material on him that I could – books, DVDs etc. He clearly loved John and Ace, and they loved him just as much

    But the longer I have thought about it, the more I think it was wrong to take him to a wild environment that he had never lived in and just didn’t understand. I hate zoos and circuses, but the alternative John and Ace were looking at was the lion enclosure at one of the UK safari parks, and somehow I feel that it would have been a far happier life for Christian there than having to live in the incredibly dangerous world he was taken to in Africa.

  135. By Hannah on Jun 10, 2010 | Reply

    David,I feel most people agree with you on the lion going to a wild animal park instead.But the last time Ace and John saw Christian,he didn’t spend that much time with them.He would go off and sit alone.He had become more of a ” wild lion “.

  136. By jean griffiths on Aug 30, 2010 | Reply

    repling to your comments,,,i too have cried for days cant stop thinking of christian and the love they shared,,,i hurt inside,,for him and pray he passed away in peace.i so want to go out to kora if only i org it,just to look where he roamed,,,,bless him,,i wish id met him,,iv never heard a story like this and never be so moved..animals are loyal,and your best friend,,,god bless you christian,,you angel,,

  137. By chris on Oct 26, 2010 | Reply

    hi to everyone…very emocional story a see dvd and next saturday arrive to me the book.

  138. By Kate on Jan 11, 2011 | Reply

    Hi – last Sunday there was an hour special piece on Elsa and the Adamson’s on PBS – it was pretty good very factual about what happens in the wild and not idealized. There were a few clips of Christian with George and Tony Fitzhugh that were some that I had never seen before. Also on the “A Lion Called Christian” website there is a link to an interview with John Rendall ahout going to Kora with a group and what they found. He also states that the movie will be a reality.

  139. By jonesss on Mar 15, 2011 | Reply

    this is a beautiful storyy filled my heart, made me fight to hold back tears, only thing i don,t understand is why they would stop going back to see him

  140. By Riyaz on Jul 3, 2011 | Reply

    Dear Christian fans,

    Today I saw the whole documentary for the very first time. I am not sure, but I had heard about it before. Not sure if it was on the news.
    But it is a real touching story.

    I have no information on other lions, but it looks like this Lion was the first and only of its kind to be so friendly with humans.

    It also feels like there will never be one like him again.

  141. By Venita on Jan 7, 2012 | Reply

    I can’t help feeling sad for Christian. I wished he was still here.

Post a Comment
 
Living in Courage