Bindi Irwin Backlash: PETA Slams 15-Year-Old's Partnership With SeaWorld

"Bindi's talk-show appearances are just a flimsy last-ditch effort by an abusement park hoping to make a buck," the animal rights organization states

By Bruna Nessif Mar 07, 2014 2:12 AMTags
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Crikey!

Bindi Irwin, the 15-year-old daughter of the late Crocodile Hunter star Steve Irwin, has gotten herself into some hot water after her appearance on Good Morning America.

Irwin, who was joined by mom Terri Irwin, 49, and brother Robert Irwin, 10, for the live interview in New York City's Times Square with co-anchor Robin Roberts, revealed that she has a new business partnership with SeaWorld.

And PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, is not happy about that. "The Irwin family has been exploiting animals for years, so it comes as no surprise that Bindi has agreed to become SeaWorld's latest shill," the animal rights organization said in a statement obtained by E! News.

"But plastering her face on SeaWorld's website won't cover up the fact that orcas, dolphins, and other animals are suffering in SeaWorld's tiny tanks after being ripped from their families.

"What millions have realized—through PETA's massive campaign and the hit documentary Blackfish—is that SeaWorld is no place for anyone who truly cares about animals," the statement continues. "Bindi's talk-show appearances are just a flimsy last-ditch effort by an abusement park hoping to make a buck."

The controversy revolving around the dangers of keeping orcas captive was not discussed during the interview.

"We are so thrilled to finally be joining SeaWorld on a brand new initiative called Generation Nature, which is all about encouraging kids to get involved and become game changers for wildlife and wild places," Irwin said.