The MGM Lion Legacy: Leo the Last and the Origin of the Famed Roar

For decades, the roar of Leo, the latest of the MGM lions, has been a part of the iconic opening every MGM film. But this majestic creature is not just a symbol; he has a rich and tumultuous history. Let's dive into the story of Leo and how the iconic roar came to be.

The Last of the MGM Lions

The story of Leo, the 8th MGM lion, is one of survival and resilience. While the first Leo made his debut in 1927, long ago, his descendants are still very much alive. As of 2021, you could spot Leo and his family in a specially designed sanctuary at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas. However, this sanctuary has now been retired, and the lions have moved to a new home at the Cat House, a farm sanctuary in Las Vegas. These majestic creatures, descendants of the original Leo, are not just symbols but living parts of a rich cinematic legacy.

The Recording of the MGM Roar

The roar that you hear at the beginning of every MGM film is not just any lion's roar; it is the roar of Jackie, a male lion from the 1920s. Rumor has it that Leo was the actor behind the roar in 1957, although it was actually Coffee, the previous MGM lion. The recording process for Jackie's roar was a fascinating one, capturing a moment in time that has been preserved for generations. The roar has been featured in numerous films, including The Wizard of Oz from 1939, lending its mystic and powerful presence to the magical curtains of cinema.

The Story Behind the Iconic Roar

The roots of the MGM roar go back to 1928, when a cameraman and a sound technician recorded the roar of an actual lion, Jackie. This roar, captured on gramophone records, was later used in White Shadows in the South Seas, MGM's first sound production. The final product was first heard in the opening sequence of White Shadows in the South Seas in 1928, and it has remained the trademark of the MGM logo ever since. Jackie was not just a sound effect; he was a character in his own right, appearing in over 100 films, including several Tarzan movies, and even making a cameo in The Wizard of Oz.

Publicity and Peril

MGM's elaborate efforts to maintain the glamour of their film lion didn't stop there. In 1927, Jackie embarked on a publicity tour, where he was billed as the "Official MGM Lion." However, his journey was anything but safe. Jackie's tour took a grave turn when a plane carrying him crashed in the Arizona desert. During the getaway, the pilot, Marker Jenson, left Jackie in a cage with supplies before he went for help. After horrific conditions, Jackie was found safe, earning him the nickname "Lucky Leo."

A Bittersweet History

The tale of Leo and his ancestors is a testament to the enduring legacy of cinema. The roar has echoed through the years, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. From the early days of sound to the modern era of digital media, the MGM lion remains a symbol of excellence and timelessness. As the legacy of Coffee and Jackie's roar continues to live on, Leo will remain a memorable part of this iconic tradition.