Joker star Joaquin Phoenix is asking a Florida park to transfer some bears used in Brother Bear to an animal sanctuary. Some people may not realize that the Academy Award winner played Kenai in the Disney movie. But, when he became aware that Florida’s Bearadise Ranch was home to the animals that inspired the characters in the film, he wrote a letter asking for their transfer to “an accredited sanctuary.” (credit THR for transcription) Phoenix has been a staunch advocate for animals and worked with PETA in the past. The organization brought this situation to more people’s attention. The Bearadise Ranch says the they try to “educate and generate public awareness for habitat preservation and conservation for all bear species.” But, some believe that having the animals in a less entertainment-based setting might be better for the bears in the long run. Phoenix’s letter is long and thoughtful, you can read it all down below:
