Anna Delvey rabbit photo stunt draws backlash

Convicted con artist Anna Delvey faces new scrutiny after a controversial photoshoot involving rabbits and subsequent abandonment.

Anna Delvey Bunny Photoshoot Triggers Backlash in New York

In New York City, Anna Delvey, whose real name is Anna Sorokin, posed in a strapless sundress, white pumps, and an ankle monitor while holding two rabbits on a hot pink leash. After the shoot, the rabbits were abandoned in Prospect Park. The animals had been rescued earlier that week by vegan influencer Terry Chao, who identified them as Moon and Parker.

Delvey credited Christian Batty as the rabbit scout in the photo caption. Batty later apologized, saying he had no knowledge of the plan to release the rabbits and that he panicked when he realized they would be surrendered to him. Chao and Batty explained that they helped rescue a third rabbit named Joaquin and that all three rabbits are now in foster care while donors raise funds.

Delvey said she did not participate in the acquisition, transport, or return of the animals and would not condone such actions. Online critics and animal rights defenders criticized the stunt, and Batty's apology and Delvey's statements did not fully quell the backlash.

The episode sits at the crossroads of celebrity culture and animal welfare. It shows how social media stunts can have real life consequences for animals and people involved. It also raises questions about accountability when many parties share responsibility for a stunt.

This case highlights the volatility of online reaction and the challenge for influencers to manage a crisis when the facts are murky. It could push more attention to how borrowed pets are sourced and treated in media projects.

Highlights

The rescued rabbits now await homes as the debate over pet treatment in public stunts continues