The Circus Cook is a minor character in the 2019 live-action film Dumbo. He is one of the circus performers who works for Max Medici's traveling circus. He is portrayed by Jo Osmond.
Role in the film[]
The Circus Cook is first seen helping to set up the circus tent in Joplin, Missouri. He later witnesses the birth of Dumbo, a baby elephant with unusually large ears. He is amused by Dumbo's appearance and joins the other performers in mocking him. He also participates in Dumbo's debut performance, where he throws a bucket of water at him to make him sneeze and reveal his ears to the audience.
The Circus Cook remains with the circus when it is bought by V.A. Vandevere, a ruthless entrepreneur who wants to exploit Dumbo's flying ability for his amusement park, Dreamland. He performs in Vandevere's circus show alongside Miss Atlantis, a mermaid-like singer, and other acts. He also helps to rescue Dumbo's mother, Mrs. Jumbo, from Nightmare Island, a section of Dreamland where dangerous animals are kept.
The Circus Cook escapes with the rest of the circus troupe when Dreamland catches fire due to Vandevere's sabotage. He rejoins Medici's circus, which becomes a success without relying on animal acts. He is last seen performing as a chef in Medici's new show.
Personality[]
The Circus Cook is a loyal and hard-working member of the circus, but he also has a cruel and insensitive side. He enjoys making fun of Dumbo and does not seem to care about his feelings or well-being. He is also easily impressed by Vandevere's wealth and fame and does not question his motives or methods. However, he also shows some courage and compassion when he helps to free Mrs. Jumbo and reunite her with Dumbo.
Trivia[]
- The Circus Cook does not have a name in the film or the credits. He is only referred to as “The Cook” by Jo Osmond on her Instagram account.
- The Circus Cook does not appear in the original 1941 animated film or the novel by Helen Aberson and Harold Pearl that it is based on.
- The Circus Cook is one of the few characters in the film who does not have an American accent. He speaks with a British accent, reflecting Jo Osmond's nationality.
