The final year of the world's most famous bear
Available on Amazon October 16
Available in
October 16, 2026
Photo: Savannah Rose
Poster photo: Savannah Rose
When filmmaker Alex Stavrou began following Grizzly 399, he set out to document the extraordinary phenomenon surrounding the world's most famous grizzly bear. He had no idea he was filming the final year of her life.
For nearly three decades, Grizzly 399 became one of the most famous wild animals in the world. Millions followed her as she raised 18 cubs and became an unlikely symbol of wildlife conservation.
Through the photographers, guides, conservationists and devoted followers who knew her best, the film explores celebrity, social media and the complicated relationship between people and wild animals in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
399's Community
Zeke CarpenterPam StricklandKristin HayesAmber SampsonSylvia BorgonovoKurt KemitzerGloria StaubRafael SandovalRoy CruzJen RitchieDwight VaselJennifer TowerBernie ScatesElk Raven Photography
From the film
Grizzly 399 is the most famous bear who ever lived. If you've never heard of her, think of her as the Taylor Swift of bears. Over her lifetime she had 18 cubs, a record, and in 2020 she shocked the world by emerging from hibernation with four cubs, which is just as rare for grizzlies as it is for humans. She spent nearly three decades living in close proximity to people, and her unusual tolerance of people made her an icon and an ambassador for grizzly bears and conservation around the world.
Photo: Savannah Rose
Family tree
Eight litters, 18 cubs, from her first in 2004 to Spirit in 2023. Scroll sideways →
Festivals & conservation
Screenings of 399 Forever have brought audiences together with wildlife guides, conservationists and local organizations to continue the conversation beyond the film.
The final year of the world's most famous bear
Available to rent or buy on Amazon October 16
Photo: Evan Watts
Contact
Featured guides and photographers are available for interviews on request. Screeners are available to press on request.
BAD CRAYFISH