In response to Discovery Channel’s upcoming special, Eaten Alive, which will feature author and naturist Paul Rosolie in a “snake-proof” suit while being eaten by a massive anaconda, People For the Ethical Treatment of Animals had something to say:
Not only does this publicity stunt sound far-fetched, it would also be lethal for the snake. Shame on this pseudo ‘wildlife expert’ for tormenting and likely killing an animal for a thrill, and shame on the Discovery Channel for giving him the incentive to do it.
Whatever the filmmaker has planned, the snake will likely pay the ultimate price, as animals usually do when they’re used for entertainment. PETA has reached out to the Discovery Channel and asked them to pull the show, whether it is a hoax or not.
According to Entertainment Weekly, the episode has already been filmed, and Discovery assures it is not a hoax, and the snake did survive.
Rosolie reportedly soaked himself in pigs’ blood prior to the stunt, which is a common practice used to make the snake long for food but also be more likely to vomit afterwards. This made the process of regurgitation much easier for the giant snake.
Eaten Alive airs on Dec. 7.