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As we knew him, Freddie Mercury, the legendary vocalist of the rock band Queen, was a passionate lover of cats. His affection for these furry companions was profound, and he was known to have lived with nine of them in his mansion. Not only did he dedicate songs and musical notes to them, but he also left a part of his inheritance to these beloved felines.
Freddie Mercury’s nine cherished cats were among his most prized possessions. Their names were Tom, Jerry, Oscar, Tiffany, Goliath, Miko, Romeo, Lily, and Delilah. In 1987, Freddie adopted his favorite cat, Delilah, who inspired him to write a song expressing his deep affection for her.
His personal assistant, Peter Freestone, captures this heartfelt connection in his book, Mister Mercury. Peter vividly describes Freddie’s devotion to his pets, revealing that while on tour, Freddie would call home from his hotel just to speak with his cats.
- Tom
- Jerry
- Oscar
- Tiffany
- Goliath
- Miko
- Romeo
- Lily
- Delilah
Freddie’s unique relationship with his cats truly showcased his compassionate and loving nature, making him not only a rock icon but also a devoted pet parent.
One of the greatest demonstrations of love by the iconic vocalist for his feline companions was the dedication found in the notes of his 1985 solo album, Mr. Bad Guy. He specifically mentioned his beloved cat Jerry, along with a nod to his other cats and to cat lovers everywhere.
A Legendary Love for Cats
Freddie Mercury was always attentive to his pets, ensuring he spent quality time with each of them. Numerous photos of Mercury with his cherished cats serve as evidence of this deep affection.
Heartfelt Traditions
Every Christmas, Mercury had a charming tradition where he would hang stockings for each of his cats, labeling them with their names. Inside, he would place treats and toys, ensuring each feline felt special during the festive season.
Acts of Kindness and Love
The renowned British newspaper, The Telegraph, highlights the singer’s love for rescuing cats. Mercury enjoyed visiting the Blue Cross animal shelter, a significant animal protection organization in England, from where he adopted Miko, Romeo, Lily, and Goliath.
- Miko
- Romeo
- Lily
- Goliath
Freddie Mercury’s love for his cats was no secret. His beloved feline, Tiffany, was a gift from his partner, Mary Austin, acquired from a breeder. However, his other cherished companions, Tom, Jerry, Oscar, and his favorite, Delilah, were all rescued from the streets.
The Iconic Music Video Tribute
In the 1991 music video for “These are the Days of Our Lives,” the last video by the legendary British band, Freddie can be seen wearing a vest adorned with cat prints. These were not just any cats—they were his own.
The Telegraph reported that this unique vest was crafted by his friend, Donald Mackenzie, who immortalized Freddie’s feline friends in the design.
A Legacy for His Feline Friends
Known for his brilliance and extravagance, Freddie Mercury’s love for his cats extended beyond life. He made sure to include them in his will, showcasing his deep affection for them.
In the book “Freddie Mercury: His Life in His Own Words,” compiled from the few interviews given by Mercury, he often spoke about the legacy he left for his cats. His dedication to his animal companions was a testament to his unique personality and the special bond he shared with them.