The Royal Lineage of Hamlet the Hotel Cat

Hamlet the 8th, once a stray cat, now lives as royalty at the Algonquin Hotel in New York City. He's not just any hotel cat – he's the 12th in a proud lineage of resident felines that dates back to the 1920s.

The tradition began when a marmalade stray named Rusty wandered into the hotel and decided to stay. Actor John Barrymore, a hotel regular, thought Rusty needed a name with more class. He suggested "Hamlet," and just like that, a nearly century-old tradition was born.

From Stray to Celebrity

Like all the hotel cats before him, Hamlet comes from humble beginnings. He was rescued from a stray cat colony on Long Island before finding his forever home at the famous hotel.

Now, Hamlet entertains visitors from across the globe. Despite his fame, he maintains his dignity while staying humble – in what can only be described as an aristocratic manner.

A Hotel Designed for Cats

The Algonquin takes its feline resident very seriously. Last year, the hotel completely redesigned its lobby with Hamlet in mind. The new space includes special bookshelves with nooks and ladders that serve as Hamlet's personal climbing gym.

More Than Just a Pretty Face

Hamlet doesn't just lounge around looking handsome. He's also a cat with a cause. He hosts yearly fundraisers that collect money for animal rescue groups, helping other cats who haven't been as lucky as him.

The Chief Cat Officer

With such a busy schedule, Hamlet needs help managing his affairs. That's why he has his own dedicated staff member – a Chief Cat Officer. This full-time personal assistant handles all aspects of Hamlet's life, from answering his emails to managing his social media accounts and making sure he's comfortable in his hotel home.

The hotel has always named their resident cats either Hamlet or Matilda, keeping the tradition alive through generations of feline friends. When you visit the Algonquin, meeting Hamlet isn't just a cute encounter – it's a brush with New York City history.