The Channel 4 programme Scared of the Dark utilised a live rabbit in one of its challenges, which infuriated PETA.
It was a part of a job where celebrities, who live in total darkness, had to determine using just their hands what objects—or creatures, in this case—were within the boxes.
The fact that the captive rabbit went through this ordeal saddened the animal rights organisations.
PETA Vice President of Programmes Elisa Allen said: ‘This rabbit isn’t a toy, a prop, or a thing and should not be subjected to this juvenile, uninformed, and disgustingly insensitive little stunt, which needs to be scrapped instantly.’
Elisa thinks the work was needless since the rabbit would have found the encounter terrifying.
‘As prey animals, being groped and poked by strangers would have been a terrifying experience, and Scared of the Dark should be ashamed of exploiting rabbits for views.
‘PETA urges the show’s producers to leave animals out of future episodes, as whenever animals are used as entertainment props, their best interests are left at the studio door,’ she concluded.
Channel 4 said: ‘The welfare of the rabbits featured was of paramount importance throughout and their involvement was carefully planned following advice from the licenced company who cares for them, in compliance with the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018.
‘The rabbits chosen are trained and well used to taking part in these types of activities and their handlers were present and represented the welfare of the animals whilst on set. Animal welfare facilities were provided and filming times were set following advice from the animal provider.’
Viewers threatened to complain to Ofcom and claimed the rabbit ‘looked terrified’ in the dark environment.
One viewer fumed: ‘I can’t believe I have just seen a live rabbit be treated like that on TV in 2023.’
Another tweeted: ‘I’m not an animal activist but there shouldn’t be a live rabbit in there.’
A third person echoed: ‘Just can’t believe someone at@channel4 thought it was a great idea to put a rabbit in a box in the dark that’s gonna be whacked and prodded with hands.’
According to the plot of the programme, Donna Preston, Scarlett Moffatt, Nicola Adams, Chloe Burrows, Chris Eubank, Chris McCausland, Max George, and Paul Gascoigne must endure eight days in total darkness.
To keep their spot on the Danny Dyer-hosted show and earn meals or goodies, the gang must take part in tasks.
They will be led back into the light if they declare, “I’m scared of the dark.”
Scared of the Dark is on Channel 4 at 9pm, and will run daily until Thursday April 20. It will also be available to watch on All4.
Source My Celebrity Life.