“Gladiators 2”
Animal rights activists criticize production
Criticism of “Gladiator 2” (scene from part 1 with Russel Crowe, left and Djimon Hounsou).
© imago images/Everett Collection
A collapsed horse and snappy monkeys: The animal welfare organization PETA criticizes the shooting of “Gladiator 2”.
PETA’s animal rights activists are concerned about the treatment of animals on the set of Gladiator 2 in Malta. Director Ridley Scott (85) received a letter from the organization which is available on the “TMZ” portal. Actors like Paul Mescal (27), Denzel Washington (68) and Pedro Pascal (48) are said to have also received a letter. It wasn’t the first letter from PETA that the “Gladiator 2” makers received.
According to the letter, PETA and the group Animal Liberation Malta have received several anonymous tips about the questionable handling of animals. A whistleblower recently revealed that a horse is said to have collapsed. The enormous heat on the set was the reason why the animal is said to have worn a costume.
The animal rights activists remind that in the past horses have been injured or even died on film sets time and again. “They are naturally shy, flight and injury prone and sensitive to the stresses of a film set,” the letter reads.
Macaques also pose a threat to humans
In addition to treating horses, PETA’s use of macaques is a thorn in its side. The monkeys are unpredictable and can bite people. There is a risk of transmission of the herpes B virus, which can be fatal to humans.
“We urge you to immediately cancel any plans to use real animals in the film,” the letter said.