Joaquin Phoenix’s Plea For Twin Bears: A Call For Compassion
In an urgent and compassionate move, Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix has joined forces with PETA to advocate for the release of twin bears, River and Daisy, currently held at Three Bears General Store in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This poignant plea underscores the importance of animal welfare and the pressing need for responsible treatment of wildlife.
River and Daisy, just two years old, are reportedly confined to a barren concrete pit where they endure constant stress as part of a roadside zoo experience. This setting starkly contrasts with their natural habitat, where young bears would learn survival skills and form social bonds. Phoenix's letter to the store's owner, Daniel DeLozier, emphasizes this disparity, urging him to extend the compassion he shows to his visitors toward the bears themselves. "It’s obvious that you care deeply about the people who visit your store," he writes. "I’m asking you to extend the same compassion to River and Daisy, who are currently suffering in an unnatural environment…"
One compelling aspect of Phoenix's plea is the sentimental connection between the bears' namesake and his own family. The bear named River evokes memories of Phoenix’s son and late brother, making his message a deeply personal one. In his letter, he asserts the importance of cultivating a humane environment for River and Daisy, urging DeLozier to send them to a reputable sanctuary where they can roam freely, socialize, and live in a way that aligns with their instincts as bears.
PETA, which has long been an advocate for animal rights, reinforced the message with a video that features Phoenix’s heartfelt letter alongside disturbing footage illustrating the bears' current situation. The organization emphasizes that animals should not be subjected to entertainment exploitation, declaring the Three Bears General Store its "Grinch of the Year" for 2022, a title that highlights the store’s failure to uphold humane treatment practices.
As pressure mounts against the Three Bears General Store, the public is encouraged to join Phoenix and PETA in calling for the closure of the bear pit. River and Daisy deserve a second chance at life, one that allows them the natural behaviors essential for their well-being. This case serves as a broader reminder of our responsibility to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Will you stand with Phoenix and PETA to ensure a brighter future for River and Daisy? Share your thoughts and join the conversation—let’s work together to promote animal welfare and compassion.