Remembering Derek: a gentle soul who finally found love

Derek – one of the 101 bears moved from the former Nanning bile farm to Animals Asia’s Chengdu sanctuary – passed away recently, surrounded by care, friendship and the safety he’d been denied for so long. His story continues to inspire all of us who believe that compassion can transform lives.

A bear who stole every heart

When our team first met Derek at Nanning, he was in a heartbreaking state. Years of captivity had left him scarred and stressed: his head bore wounds from rubbing against cage bars, his left eye was cloudy, both ears were torn, and his tongue hung permanently from his mouth.

Yet beneath all this was a gentle, trusting bear who seemed to want nothing more than peace.

Uncovering his past and easing his pain

Veterinary assessments revealed impaired vision, severe dental loss, widespread arthritis and an infected right eye causing constant discomfort. Removing the diseased eye meant Derek was almost blind – but it also gave him relief.

With soft bedding, nourishing meals and daily enrichment, his personality blossomed. He became a calm, affectionate presence who took deep joy in hammocks, log treats and quiet sunbathing.

A connection that reached across the world

Derek’s sweet nature soon caught the attention of long-time Animals Asia ambassador Ricky Gervais. The bear reminded him of the compassionate main character from his TV series Derek, and he chose to adopt and name him in his honour.

Ricky described him as “a beautiful but very damaged bear,” and celebrated the chance to help him experience the life he deserved.

A peaceful new beginning

During the move from Nanning to Chengdu, Derek remained his famously chilled self – even napping through much of the activity. Once at the sanctuary, he stepped into his new home with quiet bravery. A simple food trail encouraged his first venture outdoors, and from there his confidence grew day by day.

In the months that followed, Derek embraced sanctuary life: sleeping soundly through winter, splashing in his pool, relaxing on his fire-hose hammock and gently observing the world around him.

A legacy of kindness

Derek’s journey, though marked by suffering, became a testament to resilience and the healing power of compassion.

He leaves behind a legacy that continues to move everyone who knew him — and reminds us why every rescue matters.

Watch Derek’s beautiful story of hope and resilience