A bust of Jim Morrison, the iconic frontman of The Doors, has been recovered after being stolen from his gravesite in 1988. The bust was found by French police during an investigation led by the Financial and Anti-Corruption Brigade, who stumbled upon it during a routine search in Paris.
The Paris Regional Judicial Police Directorate announced the discovery, marking the end of a 37-year absence for the bust that fans have long missed. Morrison, who passed away at the young age of 27 in 1971, is buried at Père Lachaise Cemetery, a resting place for many notable figures like Oscar Wilde and Edith Piaf.
The bust, weighing around 300 pounds, was created by Croatian sculptor Mladen Mikulin and placed on Morrison’s grave in 1981, ten years after his death. It was stolen seven years later, leaving fans without this important tribute for decades. Since then, fans have continued to visit Morrison’s grave, especially on significant dates like the anniversary of his death on July 3, often gathering in large numbers.
Jeff Jampo, the manager of Morrison’s estate, expressed his happiness about the bust’s recovery. He noted that it is a significant piece of history and that the family had always wanted it back at the grave. He mentioned that they will now assess the condition of the bust.
While it’s unclear what will happen next, there is hope among fans and observers that the bust could be returned to its original location. Paris tour guide Jade Jezzini suggested that placing the bust back on the grave could draw even more visitors, although she acknowledged that the cemetery might not be able to handle the crowds.
This unexpected find has reignited interest in Morrison’s legacy, reminding everyone of the lasting impact he had on music and culture. As the story unfolds, fans eagerly await news about the bust and its future at Père Lachaise.