Gunther Gebel-Williams (1934-2001) was a famed animal trainer for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus from 1968-1990. Born in Schweidnitz, Germany, he began working for the circus at age 13, and soon began training for his career as an animal trainer. Joining the Ringling Brothers circus in 1968, Gebel-Williams came to prominance from his many appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show and The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, and became one of the superstars of the circus.