PETA Accuses Cast and Director of ‘Gladiator 2’ of Animal Use on Set

Title: PETA Urges Ridley Scott to Halt the use of Live Animals in “Gladiator 2”

Introduction (140 words):
Renowned director Ridley Scott has faced criticism from animal rights organization PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) for allegedly using live animals on the set of his upcoming film, “Gladiator 2.” PETA has sent letters to Scott and the film’s cast, including Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Paul Mescal, and others, urging them to cease the use of animals in the production. The letters, obtained by TMZ, detail whistleblower complaints regarding the use of horses and macaque monkeys on the set in Malta. PETA expresses concerns about the animals’ well-being in extreme temperatures and highlights the industry’s history of on-set horse injuries and deaths. They suggest using CGI animals as an ethical alternative.

Body:

1. Allegations of Live Animal Use on the Set (150 words):
PETA has made serious allegations against Ridley Scott, claiming that the director has been using live animals, including horses and macaque monkeys, during the filming of “Gladiator 2.” In a series of letters addressed to Scott and the film’s cast, PETA voices concerns about the welfare of these animals and calls for an immediate halt to their use.

According to PETA, they received whistleblower complaints about the treatment of animals on the set. One complaint specifically mentioned the collapse of a horse, which PETA presumes was due to the extreme temperatures in Malta, where the film is being shot. The organization emphasizes that horses are naturally skittish and vulnerable to the stressors of a film set. PETA cites the prevalence of on-set horse injuries and deaths in the film and TV industry and expresses their hope that “Gladiator 2” will not contribute to this troubling statistic.

2. Dangers of Working with Live Macaque Monkeys (150 words):
PETA’s letters not only address the use of horses but also raise concerns about the use of live macaque monkeys on the set of “Gladiator 2.” The organization highlights the unpredictable nature of these animals, emphasizing that they can pose a threat to humans.

Furthermore, PETA condemns the alleged practice of separating baby macaques from their mothers at a young age, specifically for use in film productions. This practice, according to PETA, is unethical and causes unnecessary suffering to the animals.

PETA emphasizes that using live animals on set, particularly those prone to flight and injury, poses a significant risk. They advocate for the use of CGI animals as a humane and viable alternative.

3. Impact of the SAG-AFTRA Strike and Rumors of Production Continuation (150 words):
Despite the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, PETA has received rumors suggesting that “Gladiator 2” is continuing production this week. The strike, initiated by actors and writers, has led to a shutdown in Hollywood. PETA, therefore, calls on Ridley Scott to prioritize animal welfare and avoid using live animals on set.

PETA emphasizes that the use of CGI animals would not only be ethical but also align with the industry’s responsible practices amid the strike. The organization encourages Ridley Scott and the production company to explore this alternative.

TMZ reached out to Ridley Scott, Paramount Pictures, and the production company behind “Gladiator 2” for comment but has not received a response thus far.

4. The Actors’ Role and PETA’s Recommendations (150 words):
PETA’s letters were not solely directed to Ridley Scott but also extended to the cast of “Gladiator 2.” Actors such as Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Paul Mescal, Connie Nielsen, Djimon Hounsou, Lior Raz, Joseph Quinn, Derek Jacobi, Matt Lucas, Peter Mensah, Mike Parish, and Chi Lewis-Parry were implored to consider PETA’s concerns and take appropriate action.

PETA recommends that the cast members relay their concerns to Ridley Scott and advocate for the use of CGI animals in the film. By taking a stand against the use of live animals, the cast can contribute to the ethical treatment of animals within the entertainment industry.

Conclusion (100 words):
PETA’s efforts to address the alleged use of live animals on the set of “Gladiator 2” and their recommendation for the use of CGI animals demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare in the entertainment industry. While Ridley Scott, Paramount Pictures, and the production company behind “Gladiator 2” have yet to respond to PETA’s concerns, the organization’s plea underlines the need for responsible animal treatment.

As the film industry evolves, incorporating ethical standards becomes increasingly important. PETA’s push for the cessation of live animal use and the adoption of CGI alternatives is a step towards creating a safer and more humane environment for all living beings involved in film production.

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