Bentley the Lion, MGM Grand's iconic star, dies at 15 after long illness
Bentley the Lion, once a star attraction at MGM Grand’s Lion Habitat, has died at 15. The lion had lived at Keith Evans’ Lion Habit Ranch in Henderson after the habitat closed in 2012. His passing follows a battle with multiple serious illnesses. Bentley was born into a notable lineage, descended from Leo, the last lion used by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios in its iconic movie bumper. For 12 years, he lived at the MGM Grand’s Lion Habitat, which operated from 1999 until 2012. The habitat was part of the world’s largest single hotel, a resort with over 6,800 guestrooms.
After the closure, Bentley and other lions were relocated to Keith Evans’ Lion Habit Ranch. The ranch charges visitors $25 for out-of-state guests and $20 for Nevada residents. Bentley’s health declined after he was diagnosed with aplastic anaemia, cancer, and leukaemia.
Las Vegas has long been home to exotic animal exhibits. Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage features dolphins, white tigers, lions, and leopards. Meanwhile, Mandalay Bay’s Shark Reef Aquarium houses over 2,000 sharks, giant stingrays, endangered green sea turtles, and even a Komodo dragon. Bentley’s death marks the end of an era for MGM Grand’s former Lion Habitat. The lion’s legacy ties back to Hollywood history and Las Vegas’ tradition of showcasing exotic animals. His care at the Lion Habit Ranch provided a final home after the habitat’s closure.
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