Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter has found herself at the centre of controversy following her headline-grabbing performance at the 68th Grammy Awards. The world's largest animal rights organisation, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), has publicly criticised the singer for incorporating a live bird into her elaborate airport-themed set, branding the move as both 'stupid' and 'cruel'.
Grammys Performance Sparks Animal Welfare Debate
Carpenter took to the stage at the prestigious awards ceremony on Monday, delivering a memorable performance of her hit song 'Manchild'. The singer emerged from a baggage conveyor belt wearing a white aviator hat, a bedazzled jacket, shorts, and boots, entering a mock terminal branded 'SCA' for Sabrina Carpenter Airlines. The performance quickly became one of the most discussed moments of the night.
However, it was the conclusion of her act that has drawn significant criticism. Carpenter returned to a fake aeroplane set and revealed a white bird, which she held as it flapped its wings. This moment has since ignited a fierce debate about the ethical treatment of animals in entertainment.
PETA's Strongly Worded Social Media Condemnation
PETA responded swiftly, sharing a pointed Instagram post directed at the singer. The organisation's message read: 'Hey Sabrina, bringing a live bird onto the Grammys stage is stupid, slow, useless ... and cruel. Bright lights, loud noise and handling cause fear and distress for a bird who belongs flying free in the open sky.'
The caption accompanying the post added further criticism: 'The Manchild singer is giving childlike behaviour. Leave animals out of the #GRAMMYs!' This public rebuke has highlighted growing concerns about the use of live animals in high-pressure performance environments.
Mixed Reactions from Fans and Viewers
The online response to PETA's statement has been divided. While some social media users defended Carpenter, arguing that 'it wasn't that bad', others expressed agreement with the animal rights organisation. One concerned fan wrote: 'I love Sabrina!! But I hope she doesn't bring an animal onstage ever again, that was hard to watch.'
As of now, Sabrina Carpenter has not publicly addressed PETA's criticism. Representatives for the singer have been contacted for comment regarding the controversy surrounding her Grammys performance.
History of Celebrity Animal Controversies
This incident marks another chapter in PETA's ongoing campaign against celebrities who involve animals in their public personas. The organisation has previously targeted high-profile figures for what it deems inappropriate treatment of animals.
Kardashian Christmas Puppy Controversy
In December last year, PETA publicly criticised reality television star Kim Kardashian after she gifted each of her four children their own puppy for Christmas. PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk condemned the move, stating: 'Puppies are not plushies, and it's a damn shame that Kim missed the chance to be a spokesperson for shelter pups and instead is being rightly slammed on social media for that.'
Kim Kardashian was not alone in facing criticism. Her sister Khloe also shared photos and videos of a black Labrador retriever puppy on her Instagram stories, revealing her family had received the dog as a Christmas gift. Newkirk encouraged both sisters to 'call PETA or a local shelter the next time' they consider adding another dog to their family.
These incidents demonstrate PETA's consistent approach to calling out celebrities who they believe treat animals as accessories rather than living beings deserving of proper care and consideration. The organisation continues to advocate for animal welfare in all aspects of public life, including entertainment and celebrity culture.
