If you’ve binge-watched the infamous Netflix documentary series, “Tiger King,” then you’ve undoubtedly become familiar with the soft-spoken but fiercely passionate animal caretaker, Erik Cowie. As Joe Exotic’s right-hand man and the head zookeeper of the Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park, Cowie emerged as one of the most intriguing characters from the series. Although he may not have been as flashy or outrageous as some of his co-stars, Cowie’s dedication to the animals and his intriguing life story have captured the hearts and minds of viewers worldwide.
Net Worth: $200 Thousand
Salary: –
Date of Birth: Dec 5, 1965
Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York
Gender: Male
Profession: Actor
Erik Cowie Early Life
Erik Cowie was born on December 5, 1965, in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up, he developed a passion for animals, especially big cats, at an early age. As a child, Cowie would often visit the Bronx Zoo, where he would spend hours watching and admiring the magnificent lions and tigers. Little did he know, this childhood fascination would eventually lead him to a career working with these majestic creatures.
After high school, Cowie decided to pursue a career in music. He played in several heavy metal bands during the late 1980s and early 1990s. However, the music scene proved to be quite challenging, and Cowie eventually turned to a different career path. He enrolled in a veterinary technician program, honing his skills and knowledge to work with animals. During this time, Cowie also struggled with substance abuse, which would later become a significant obstacle in his life.
In 2015, Cowie was presented with an opportunity that would change his life forever. He accepted a job offer from Joe Exotic, the eccentric owner of the Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park in Oklahoma. Cowie’s love for big cats and his veterinary background made him the perfect candidate for the position. He quickly became the head zookeeper and primary caretaker for the park’s menagerie of exotic animals, including over 200 tigers, lions, and other big cats.
Erik Cowie Personal Life
Erik Cowie was known to be a private individual, often keeping his personal life out of the spotlight. However, we do know that Cowie struggled with substance abuse issues throughout his life. This battle with addiction was briefly touched upon in the “Tiger King” documentary, and it was clear that Cowie’s work with the animals provided a sense of purpose and stability during some of his most challenging times.
Cowie never married, nor did he have any children. His primary focus seemed to be his work with big cats and the relationships he built with the animals under his care. Many viewers of “Tiger King” commented on the strong bond Cowie appeared to share with the animals, as well as the respect and genuine love he had for them.
Erik Cowie Career
Erik Cowie’s career began in the music industry, where he played in various heavy metal bands. After realizing that this career path wasn’t sustainable for him, he turned to his love for animals and began studying to become a veterinary technician. This decision would ultimately lead him to the world of big cat conservation and care.
Cowie’s career truly took off when he joined the Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park in 2015. As the head zookeeper, he was responsible for the health and well-being of the park’s vast collection of exotic animals, with a particular focus on the big cats. Cowie’s dedication and commitment to these animals shone through in the “Tiger King” documentary, garnering him a significant fan following.
After leaving the Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park, Cowie briefly worked at Jeff Lowe’s Tiger King Park before ultimately finding a new home at the 2nd Act Sanctuary in Luther, Oklahoma. Here, he continued his work in animal care and conservation, contributing to the well-being of big cats in need.
Though Erik Cowie’s time in the limelight was relatively brief, his impact on the world of big cat conservation will not be forgotten. His life serves as a testament to the power of passion and dedication, and his work will continue to inspire others who share his love for these magnificent creatures.
Erik Cowie Net Worth
Cowie’s appearance on “Tiger King” thrust him into the spotlight, making him a household name. While the show primarily focused on the larger-than-life personalities of Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin, Cowie’s quiet determination and clear love for the animals he cared for captured viewers’ attention. He became one of the documentary’s most well-respected and sympathetic figures.
However, despite his newfound fame, Cowie’s net worth remains relatively modest. It is estimated that Erik Cowie’s net worth is around $200,000. While working at the Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park, Cowie’s salary was rumored to be around $150 per week, plus room and board. Clearly, Cowie’s passion for the animals he worked with was his primary motivation, rather than financial gain.
After the events of “Tiger King,” Cowie continued to work in animal care, eventually leaving the Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park. He briefly worked at the Tiger King Park, owned by Jeff Lowe, before moving on to work at the 2nd Act Sanctuary in Luther, Oklahoma. Unfortunately, Cowie passed away on September 3, 2021, at the age of 55, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of big cat conservation and care.
