Hollywood Animal Crusaders

Hollywood Animal Crusaders is an American television documentary that captured live-action animal cruelty investigations by actor turned animal activist Chris DeRose and his organization, Last Chance for Animals.[1] It premiered on the Animal Planet network on June 14, 1999.[2]

The group faced pet theft, abuse of circus elephants, horses sold for slaughter, and companion animal neglect. Viewers saw the emotional reaction of the investigation team as they struggled through difficult situations.[3] Hollywood Animal Crusaders was said to be "the first mainstream television show dedicated to animals and their rights."[2]

Notable guest stars

The special was also notable because between segments, DeRose called on old friends, now celebrities, who talked with him about the rights of animals. These Hollywood stars included:

DeRose's team included Poison drummer and noted animal activist Rikki Rockett, actress Kari Whitman and artist David Silverstone.[4]

The special was directed by Burt Kearns and produced by Alison Holloway and Brian Wry through Good Story Productions.

Ark Trust & Genesis Awards

The night before its television premiere, the special was screened at Paramount Studios' main theater. The audience of 500 included entertainers, industry representatives, professionals, the show's production team, and supporters and friends of Last Chance For Animals. Emcee for the evening was Gretchen Wyler, former Broadway actress, and founder, with her group, The Ark Trust,[5] the industry's prestigious Genesis Awards, recognizing individuals in the media who have produced works with strong pro-animal messages.

The Ark Trust awarded Kearns an honorable mention plaque as director at the 2000 Genesis Awards.

References
  1. "Last Chance for Animals - Home". lcanimal.org. Retrieved 2014-09-03.
  2. "Travolta, Cher, Others on New TV Show 'Hollywood Animal Crusaders' to Talk About What Animals Mean to Them. - Free Online Library". Archived from the original on 2016-03-15. Retrieved 2022-04-12.
  3. "Hollywood Animal Crusaders - TV Special - Cast & Credits - Listings - NYTimes.com". The New York Times. Retrieved 2014-09-03.
  4. "David Silverstone - IMDb". imdb.com. Retrieved 2014-09-03.
  5. "The Hollywood Office of The HSUS". arktrust.org. Retrieved 2014-09-03.
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