Laura Thomasson, PETA’s Manager of Animals in Film and Television, recently published a statement directed toward “Toy Story 4” film director Josh Cooley.
In her statement, Thomasson urges Cooley to remove Bo Peep’s trademark accessory from the upcoming movie.
The statement came after Disney-Pixar released new images of Bo Peep in recent posters for the film. The poster showcases Bo Peep posing with confidence and sporting a new look, which many “Toy Story” fans have been excited about.
PETA, however, was less than impressed.
In her letter to Cooley, Thomasson wrote: “Given that she was designed to have a “modern” look, why hasn’t she “lost” that outdated and cruel crook? You may not know that these “shepherd’s crooks,” are used solely to hook a sheep’s neck and force these gentle animals to move. That isn’t something that a progressive Bo Peep would countenance in 2019! A “badass” Bo Peep would likely bop the shearers, not the sheep…Surely you can agree that a symbol of domination over any animal is a thing of the past and not something that belongs in Toy Story 4. Won’t you please consider removing Bo Peep’s crook from the final animation?”
While Bo Peep is making a major comeback as “an adventure-seeking free spirit,” many argue that her crook is just as much a part of her character as Woody’s hat or Jessie’s lasso.
Disney has yet to publicly respond to PETA’s statement, and it remains unclear if anything will come of PETA’s requests.
“Toy Story 4” is set to release on June 21.
By: Maytinee Kramer
