Rocker Joan Jett is the latest celebrity to throw cold water on SeaWorld.
Jett has asked the marine mammal entertainment centre and water park to stop using her music in its “Shamu Rocks” performances.
The request comes in response to a controversial documentary, Blackfish, which first aired in October showing the alleged abusive treatment of SeaWorld’s marine animals and its connection to the death of trainer Dawn Brancheau by a 12,000-pound orca. The rock star, a longtime supporter of PETA, sent a pointed letter to the head of SeaWorld.
“I was surprised and upset to see on YouTube that SeaWorld used ‘I Love Rock ‘n Roll’ as the opening music for its cruel and abusive ‘Shamu Rocks’ show. I’m among the millions who saw Blackfish and am sickened that my music was blasted without my permission at sound-sensitive marine mammals. These intelligent and feeling creatures communicate by sonar and are driven crazy in the tiny tanks in which they are confined. If I don’t receive written confirmation that SeaWorld will cease and desist from using any Joan Jett & the Blackhearts music, I will be forced to take further action, and you’ll find me among the PETA protesters outside your parks,” she wrote.
“Sea World’s reliance on cruelty and captivity for commerce has been widely exposed. I hope
you’ll take the respectable path and release the captive orcas to coastal sanctuaries so that they
can live out their lives with other orcas in nature. This move would show that your company is
truly family-friendly,” she continued.
Motley Crue’s Tommy Lee made a similar request last year. Willie Nelson, Heart, Barenaked Ladies and Cheap Trick have also cancelled performances at the waterpark in connection with the documentary.
In its response to the documentary, SeaWorld told CNN in a statement that Blackfish is “inaccurate and misleading” and neglects to include the organization’s extensive conservation efforts.
h/t Salon Photo Blackfish
