Over the last week, popular Netflix documentary Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, And Madness, has become a huge discussion on social media.
Now, American animal rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), has joined the discussion and is requesting that retired NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal refrain from having any future contact with ‘Tiger Kings’ Jeff Lowe.
Though O’Neal, who briefly appeared in the documentary, recently released a statement clearing up his involvement with Zoo, PETA wants to make sure the big man cuts ties with both Joe Exotic and his former partner, Lowe.
In a letter from PETA to O’Neal obtained by TMZ, the organization insists that Lowe is the same as ‘Tiger King’ star Joe “Exotic” Maldonado-Passage as it pertains to the treatment of animals.
“It appears that the equally problematic wild animal exhibitor Jeff Lowe is now claiming to have your support,” PETA said. “Lowe is no different from Joe Exotic when it comes to harming animals.”
“It’s clear that you love tigers, and we hope you will dissociate yourself from people who profit from abusing, breeding and exploiting them,” the letter continued. “Will you please make it clear right away that you don’t desire to have an ongoing relationship with Lowe? As long as he continues to use your name to support his abusive business, you will be tied to animal suffering.”
Lowe, who owns the Greater Wynnewood Animal Park in Oklahoma, was seen on FaceTime with O’Neal in a screenshot uploaded by the Zoo, a few weeks ago.
“One of the nicest guys in the World,” the Zoo said about former Lakers Player. “Shaq facetime’d a few minutes ago to see how we were doing and if we need anything. We love you too, buddy.”
However, O’Neal has since revealed he stopped going to the Zoo when he heard about what goes on behind the scenes TMZ reports.
“Instead, please help these tigers. Help us shut down these hellholes, move the animals to reputable sanctuaries, and keep them out of the hands of abusers,” PETA added.
