Nadine Lustre & Christophe Bariou Oppose Taxidermy Exhibit of Mali the Elephant

Nadine Lustre and Christophe Bariou Criticize Manila Zoo’s Plan for Mali’s Taxidermy Exhibit

NADINE LUSTRE – Couple Nadine Lustre and Christophe Bariou speak out against turning Mali the elephant into a taxidermy exhibit.



Nadine Lustre and Christophe Bariou have voiced their strong disapproval of the Manila Zoo’s plan to turn Mali, the late elephant, into a taxidermy exhibit. Mali, once dubbed the “world’s saddest elephant,” became a symbol of the plight of animals in captivity before his death in 2023.

The couple took to Instagram on December 21 to express their sentiments, emphasizing the need to respect Mali’s legacy. Nadine shared a post about the planned exhibit, writing, “Mali’s legacy deserves respect, not display. Let her rest in peace!” Her partner, Christophe Bariou, echoed her sentiments, stating, “Even after death, you choose not to show the minimal decency that Mali deserves, despite her lifetime of suffering. Shame on you.”
Nadine Lustre, Christophe BariouPhoto Source: Instagram
Mali arrived in the Philippines in 1977 and spent decades at the Manila Zoo, where he faced criticism from animal rights groups for living in unsuitable conditions. Advocates pushed for years to have him relocated to a wildlife sanctuary, but these efforts ultimately proved unsuccessful. Mali passed away in 2023, leaving behind a legacy that highlighted the challenges faced by zoo animals.

The proposal to taxidermy Mali’s body has sparked a divided response. Supporters argue that the exhibit could serve as an educational tribute, allowing people to reflect on his life and the broader issues surrounding captive animals. However, opponents like Lustre and Bariou believe that such a display undermines Mali’s dignity and disregards the years of suffering he endured.

For animal rights advocates, this debate underscores the need for a broader discussion about how society honors the lives of animals who have lived and died in captivity. Nadine and Christophe’s public stand reflects growing awareness of animal welfare and respect, calling for a more compassionate approach to remembering Mali.

In their final words on the matter, the couple stressed the importance of allowing Mali to rest in peace, urging everyone to focus on respecting his life and legacy rather than exploiting it for display.