At Higashiyama Zoo in Nagoya, Japan, famous silverback gorilla Shabani—known worldwide as the “handsome ikemen gorilla”—has once again captured public attention. In a recently shared video titled “Rampage the Gorilla Shabani”, the usually calm and composed ape showed a sudden burst of energy that left visitors stunned.
The footage shows Shabani approaching female gorilla Nene with unusual persistence, tapping and chasing her as onlookers react in shock. Young Kiyomasa, one of Shabani’s sons, can be heard crying out in distress as the situation unfolds. At one point, Shabani begins drumming rhythmically on a wooden platform, a behavior often linked to dominance or emotional expression in gorillas.
Although the clip has been labeled a “rampage,” experts note that Shabani does not display uncontrolled aggression. Instead, the behavior reflects his role as the troop’s leader, asserting authority and managing social dynamics within the group.
Born in 1996 in the Netherlands and later raised in Australia, Shabani has lived at Higashiyama Zoo since 2007. He first gained fame for his striking appearance and calm charisma, which led to viral popularity across Japan and beyond. Over the years, Shabani has also been celebrated for his caring paternal behavior toward his children, Kiyomasa and Annie.
This latest viral moment offers a rare look at the more intense side of the beloved silverback. While visitors are used to seeing Shabani as a gentle father figure, the video highlights that even the calmest leaders can display bursts of energy when asserting dominance.
Shabani remains one of the zoo’s biggest attractions, continuing to fascinate people around the world with his mix of strength, intelligence, and charisma.
