“Behind the Scenes: How Animals Suffer in Entertainment & What PETA Is Doing About It — with Lisa Lange”
In this episode of The Neil Haley Show, Neil speaks with Lisa Lange, Senior Vice President of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), about the hidden realities of animals used in film, television, and viral content—and what needs to change.
We love watching animals in movies, TV shows, and even short social clips—but few people stop to think about what life is like for those animals off-screen. From abusive training practices to unsafe housing and exploitation for a few seconds of film, Lisa sheds light on the suffering audiences never see.
What We Discuss:
Why even beloved cats, dogs, and horses face abusive training, poor housing, or starvation practices to “perform on cue”
The growing trend of filmmakers using their own pets (like Robert De Niro and Bridget Everett did) instead of rented animals
How CGI technology is replacing live animals—case in point, James Gunn’s Superman dog character modeled after his real dog but completely CGI
PETA’s advocacy work with showrunners, costumers, and production designers to prevent cruelty on set and behind the scenes
Why even seemingly “funny” moments (like monkeys smoking on camera or TikTok stunts with exotic animals) are actually rooted in cruelty and exploitation
Simple ways creators can get views, laughs, and likes without harming animals
Key Takeaway:
Animals are not actors, props, or clickbait. With today’s technology, talent, and creativity, there’s no excuse for animal exploitation in entertainment.
Visit: peta.org
Follow PETA on Instagram and Facebook for updates, campaigns, and ways to take action.
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