Heart has canceled its SeaWorld performance in February 2014 because of the controversial documentary Blackfish, which talks about the captivity of killer whales and the death of SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau.
With the announcement on the band’s official Twitter page, Heart joins Willie Nelson and Barenaked Ladies, both of which already dropped out of their shows at SeaWorld.
SeaWorld spokesman Nick Gollattschedk told CNN on Sunday, “While we’re disappointed a small group of misinformed individuals was able to deny fans what could have been great concerts at SeaWorld by Heart, Barenaked Ladies and Willie Nelson, we respect the bands’ decisions.”
The documentary first aired in October and raises questions about how safe and humane it is to keep killer whales in captivity. Fans who watched the film started online petitions asking musicians to stay away. Barenaked Ladies was the first to respond, citing the documentary as its reason for canceling. In a Facebook post, the band explained, “This is a complicated issue, and we don’t claim to understand all of it, but we don’t feel comfortable proceeding with the gig at this time.”
Willie Nelson also cited the documentary and petition as reasons for canceling his performance, telling CNN’s Brooke Baldwin, “I don’t agree with the way they treat their animals. It wasn’t that hard a deal for me.”
Heart wrote of its decision, “Heart has chosen to decline their forthcoming performance at SeaWorld on 2/9/14 due to the controversial documentary film ‘Black Fish’.” Fans were supportive of the decision, sending their respect and thank you’s.
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