Bo Peep is set to return in “Toy Story 4“, complete with a new look, but animal rights group PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is already calling for changes to her character.
Pixar released a new Bo Peep character poster and trailer earlier this week. Peep hasn’t been seen since “Toy Story 2” and fans were excited to see her return to the franchise with an updated look, but PETA has concerns.
Her new look comes with a more empowered attitude, but the new promos show she will still be carrying her shepherd’s crook. In a press release, PETA said it sent a letter to director Josh Cooley encouraging him “to complete the character’s transformation by retiring her crook — a tool historically used to hook lambs by the legs and neck in the wool industry.”
“A ‘badass’ Bo Peep would likely bop the shearers, not the sheep,” writes PETA Manager of Animals in Film and Television Lauren Thomasson. “[A] symbol of domination over any animal is a thing of the past and not something that belongs in Toy Story 4. Won’t you please consider removing Bo Peep’s crook from the final animation?”
Not much is known about Bo Peep in “Toy Story 4,” considering her long break from the public eye. The first glance simply revealed the character’s new costume, and the return of her teal colored crook. While this will likely be her main weapon and tool for surviving in the world, PETA is hoping that it would be removed, due to the message it sends to audiences.
Josh Cooley helmed the next installment of the franchise after John Lasseter stepped down from the project and the script was penned by Stephany Folsom after, actress Rashida Jones left due to “creative and philosophical differences” in November 2017.
Disney-Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” hits theaters June 21, 2019.
