Carol Baskin's Cage Fight

Carol Baskin's Cage Fight, launched on discovery+ in 2021, is a riveting, thought-provoking docuseries aimed at raising awareness about the unregulated, and often unkind, interactions between humans and big cats in the United States. The show offers an incisive look into the world of privately owned big cats, the potential dangers they pose to public safety, and the often-inhumane conditions in which they live. Anchored by the enigmatic activist Carol Baskin, the show sheds light on the dark recesses of big cats’ exploitation, intending to fight for their rights and end their misery.

Carol Baskin, who came to public prominence as part of the culturally pervading Tiger King docuseries, is the founder and CEO of Big Cat Rescue, a non-profit animal sanctuary. Renowned for her relentless advocacy for big cats’ rights and welfare, Baskin's reputation precedes her, making her an iconic figure in this fight. In this series, Baskin continues the mission she’s been dedicated to for decades: the end of private ownership of captive big cats and the protection of these animals from exploitation.

Famous for her passionate and relentless fight against what she perceives as injustices done to these majestic creatures, Baskin's eccentric personality brings charisma and force to this multi-part series. But Cage Fight isn't only about Baskin; it focuses intently on the animals she's fighting for, providing heart-wrenching glimpses of big cats in distress while raising essential questions about ethical interactions between humans and our feline counterparts.

Throughout the series, viewers are taken on a journey that investigates the grim reality behind owning exotic pets, particularly big cats. It demystifies the allure associated with it and unearths the often-disturbing truth that usually remains hidden from public view. The show depicts the disturbing reality of neglect, abuse, and exploitation, thriving behind the scenes of petting zoos, circuses, roadside attractions, and private menageries.

Cage Fight also casts light on the larger, lesser-known risks associated with private ownership of big cats — the threats they pose not only to themselves and their owners but also to local communities and the ecosystem. It highlights the sheer number of big cats in private hands across America, their frequently inadequate care, and the ever-present risk of deadly incidents.

While the show's core strength lies in its animal justice advocacy, it's also a deep dive into the shady, often unregulated underworld of exotic animal trade, breeding, and exploitation in the United States. It portrays a twisted society that glorifies the ownership of these dangerous, unpredictable wild animals as status symbols while ignoring the severe ethical, safety, and environmental implications.

Through Baskin's eyes, we see heartbreaking scenes of these majestic creatures confined in small cages, deprived of their natural habitats and behaviours. We follow her as she undertakes courageous rescue missions, battles defiant owners, and goes toe-to-toe with politicians to legislate against private ownership of big cats.

However, the series is not a complete depiction of despair. It presents moments of hope and countless instances of Baskin’s undying spirit, fuelled by her uncompromising love for these big cats. Throughout the series, she's seen relentlessly pushing for the Big Cat Public Safety Act, a crucial piece of legislation that aims to end private possession and unregulated trade in these animals.

While maintaining a consistent focus on its goals, Carol Baskin's Cage Fight manages to be entertaining and informative. The series juxtaposes serious conversations about animal rights and welfare with lighter, often funny, moments featuring its charismatic star.

Carol Baskin's Cage Fight is an engrossing watch, particularly for animal lovers and supporters of animal rights. The series provides a novel perspective on the relationship between humans and big cats, challenging viewers to rethink their attitudes towards pet ownership and animal welfare. It is a stirring call-to-action, urging viewers to rise against long-standing practices undermining big cat welfare and pushing towards a safer, fairer future for these majestic creatures.