Sabrina Carpenter delivered a standout moment at the recent Grammy Awards with her performance of ‘Manchild’. The entire stage transformed into an airport scene complete with a massive airplane backdrop and moving baggage belts. Fans loved the creative setup in Los Angeles as she brought high energy to the night. Toward the finale she put on a pilot’s cap and stepped into a mock airplane pulling out a beautiful white dove that drew huge applause from the crowd.
The joyful reaction inside the venue quickly shifted online when PETA stepped in with strong criticism. The animal rights group posted on X questioning why the singer chose a real bird for the act in 2026. They called the decision childish and insisted that animals simply do not belong at events like the Grammys. Many people appreciated how PETA highlighted the potential harm pointing out that bright lights and loud crowds can terrify birds.
PETA went further by creating a clever graphic that played on lyrics from her song. Their message read that bringing a live bird onstage was stupid slow useless and cruel all at once. They explained how handling the dove and exposing it to intense noise likely caused significant stress. Birds naturally thrive in open skies so forcing one into a chaotic performance environment raises real welfare concerns according to the organization.
Reactions poured in from fans creating a lively debate across social media. Some supporters rushed to defend Sabrina arguing that the dove appeared calm and the moment added magic to her show. Others sided with PETA suggesting a realistic prop could have achieved the same visual effect without involving a living creature. The conversation touched on broader questions about entertainment choices and animal treatment.
Sabrina has built an impressive career with catchy hits and bold stage presence captivating younger audiences worldwide. Her airport themed performance showcased that creativity blending fun visuals with her powerful vocals. Yet moments like the dove reveal how quickly artistic decisions can spark ethical discussions. Celebrities often face scrutiny when live animals appear in shows as awareness grows about their needs.
Past performances at award shows have occasionally featured animals leading to similar backlash over the years. Activists continue pushing for kinder alternatives like advanced props or digital effects that look stunning without risk. Sabrina’s team has not yet responded publicly to the criticism leaving room for ongoing chatter. The incident serves as another reminder of balancing spectacle with responsibility in live entertainment.
What are your thoughts on using live animals versus props in big performances like this one? Share them in the comments.
