PETA, a non-profit organization also known as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, is criticizing the actress Dakota Johnson for her participation in the recent Gucci campaign.
The 33-year-old modeled for Gucci in a shoot showcasing their new Jackie 1961 handbags, some of which are made from python and crocodile skin, which the fashion brand shared on social media on January 10.
On the official website of the Gucci brand, it proudly states that the bags, whose prices range from around $4,000 to over $30,000, are authentic.
In the listing for the Jackie 1961 Small Python Bag, the description reads: “The Jackie 1961 is presented in python, a precious leather that commands attention with its historic crescent silhouette and piston hardware.”
In response to Gucci’s use of real animal skin and Johnson’s association with the brand, PETA wrote a scathing letter to the actress, which it published TMJ.
Jessica ShotorbaniCelebrity Outreach Manager for PETA, described in horrifying detail in the letter how the slaughterhouses in Indonesia that allegedly supply skins to Gucci for their products are killing the reptiles, which is supported by a recent investigation.
Shotorbani even pointed out, “The killing of these snakes is so cruel that it would be illegal in California to buy the goods you’re advertising, because their sale is prohibited.”
This fact is confirmed by Gucci, as the website states on any python product: “Please note that python products may not be shipped to California.”
PETA’s letter to Johnson ends with Shotorbani saying, “Gucci’s use of exotic leather and your promotion of its products are extremely harmful. Please, can we hear from you today that you commit to stop wearing and promoting fashion items made from exotic leather?”
As of this writing, Johnson has not yet responded to PETA’s letter.
Johnson’s family also has an interesting history with animal rights. her grandmother, Tippi Hedrenhe currently lives with about 13 lions and tigers in his home in California.
According to an interview Johnson gave The Graham Norton Show“There used to be about 60 cats and now there are only a couple. When I was born, they were all in huge yards and it was a lot safer. It wasn’t as crazy as when they first started.”
Host, Graham Nortonshe also showed Johnson a photo of her mother, Melanie Griffiths, jumping into the pool like a child while a lion went for her leg. Johnson replied, “That’s right,” before assuring the audience that her mother did not lose her leg.
Although Hedrena’s efforts to save the big cat are much safer now, she has been heavily criticized in the past for her decision to keep a lion as a pet and let it roam free and live with her family, something she later admitted was “stupid” unbelievable.”