Sabrina Carpenter criticized for performing with live bird at the Grammys
The singer’s decision to bring a dove on stage has been slammed as “stupid” and “cruel”.
Credit: Raph_PH/CC BY 2.0
Sabrina Carpenter has faced criticism from animal rights campaigners after performing with a live bird at this year’s Grammy Awards.
The pop superstar – who received six nominations including for Album of the Year –brought a white dove on stage while singing her hit ‘Manchild’.
Reacting on X shortly after the performance aired, PETA described the stunt as “stupid” and “cruel”.
Amid further online criticism, the bird’s handler explained that the dove had undergone months of preparation and training, and was “perfectly fine”.
However, according to PETA, “Bright lights, loud noise, and handling cause fear and distress for a bird who belongs flying free in the open sky.”
Carpenter later admitted that the dove had “shit on my hand” – arguably an indication of its distress.
The decision to use a live bird seems particularly strange, given the increased scrutiny – and subsequent phasing-out – of the use of animals in entertainment. Indeed, just last month, Indonesia became the first Asian country to ban elephant rides, while Mexico has now outlawed dolphin shows.
Carpenter’s ill-judged performance aside, PETA took to X later in the night to celebrate wins for Cher and for Billie Eilish.
“A Lifetime Achievement Award feels right for Cher,” said the post. The singer – who shot to fame in 1965 as part of the folk rock duo Sonny & Cher – has long used her platform to champion many diverse animal campaigns, from urging her fans to boycott SeaWorld, back in 2014, to her five-year struggle to free the ‘world’s loneliest elephant’ from solitary confinement in a Pakistani zoo, in 2020.
Billie Eilish – winner of Song of the Year – became the youngest recipient of PETA’s Person of the Year award, in 2021, for her anti-fur stance and promotion of veganism.
We Have A Favor To Ask…
Species Unite amplifies well-researched solutions to some of the most abusive animal industries operating today.
At this crucial moment, with worldwide momentum for change building, it’s vital we share these animal-free solutions with the world - and we need your help.
We’re a nonprofit, and so to keep sharing these solutions, we’re relying on you - with your support, we can continue our essential work in growing a powerful community of animal advocates this year.
