Netflix’s documentary series ‘Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness’ became an instant sensation when it premiered in March 2020. The seven-part series explores the bizarre world of big cat breeding and the lives of the people who run the industry. The series focuses on the rivalry between Joe Exotic, a flamboyant zookeeper, and Carole Baskin, an animal rights activist, which ultimately led to Exotic’s arrest and conviction for murder-for-hire.
But how accurate is ‘Tiger King’? And does the series provide an honest portrayal of the big cat industry and the people involved in it?
At first glance, ‘Tiger King’ appears to be a wild and entertaining ride, with larger-than-life characters and jaw-dropping plot twists. However, a closer examination reveals that the series is not without its flaws.
Firstly, ‘Tiger King’ is heavily biased towards Joe Exotic. The series portrays Exotic as a sympathetic figure, a victim of Carole Baskin’s relentless campaign to shut down his zoo. But in reality, Exotic is a convicted felon who has been accused of animal abuse, violating the Endangered Species Act, and attempting to have Baskin killed.
Secondly, ‘Tiger King’ perpetuates many of the myths and misconceptions about big cats that have led to their exploitation in captivity. The series presents the breeding of tigers and other big cats as a legitimate business, when in fact it is a cruel and unethical industry that contributes to the decline of these magnificent animals in the wild.
Despite these flaws, ‘Tiger King’ has brought much-needed attention to the issue of big cat captivity and the need for stricter regulations to protect these animals. The series has also sparked important conversations about animal welfare and the ethics of using animals for entertainment.
In conclusion, ‘Tiger King’ is a flawed but compelling series that has shone a light on the dark world of big cat captivity. While the series is not without its biases and inaccuracies, it has sparked important conversations and raised awareness about an important issue.
As a journalist, it is important to approach any subject with an open mind and a commitment to uncovering the truth. When reporting on controversial topics such as big cat captivity, it is essential to verify information and seek out multiple sources to ensure accuracy and fairness in reporting.
