Jimothy the raccoon, a resident of Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, has become an overnight internet sensation due to his unique short, round shape caused by a rare genetic condition called short spine syndrome. The raccoon's fame skyrocketed after a video posted by local Kiana Hall on Instagram garnered nearly 400,000 likes in six days and over 8 million views as of writing.
Who Is Jimothy?
Jimothy was named by Hall, who encountered him during an evening walk with her husband on their 13th anniversary. She told Today, 'He just looked like a Jimothy to me.' The raccoon's distinctive appearance, attributed to compressed vertebrae, sets him apart and has fueled online fascination. Despite potential mobility issues, Jimothy appears agile.
From Local Pest to Home-Town Hero
Jimothy's rise has been rapid. Two weeks ago, he was unknown beyond Seattle's bins. Now, the Seattle Mariners have encouraged fans to 'make noise for Jimothy' at games. A mural of him has been painted in Ballard, and a painting raised $6,500 for a local food bank. City council member Alexis Mercedes Rinck will issue a proclamation declaring summer 2026 'Jimothy Summer.'
Internet Fame and Merchandise
Jimothy has inspired fan art, memes, a custom 8-bit game, a Lego build, and at least two tattoos. He was featured on The Daily Show and even acknowledged by NASA, which posted a photo from the International Space Station with the caption 'Jimothy runs this city.' Etsy lists over 1,000 Jimothy-related items, including stickers and clothing with slogans like 'Stay weird' and 'Doin' my best.'
Early Life and Advice
Another Seattle resident, Ben Trammell, posted a video of what appears to be a baby Jimothy with his family, describing a caring upbringing. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife advises the public to 'leave him alone.' Jimothy's fame reflects the online economy of attention and a desire for positive content, as noted by a local artist: 'Jimothy has come to us at a time where everyone needs something to rally around.'
