Hobbit Film Animal Deaths Controversy

During the production of The Hobbit (film series) in New Zealand, up to 27 animals, including a miniature pony named Rainbow, died on a farm described as a 'death trap.' Animal wranglers Chris Langridge and Johnny Smythe reported hazardous conditions such as steep drops, sinkholes, and defective fencing. Langridge resigned after witnessing multiple deaths and injuries, while Smythe was sacked for raising welfare concerns. The American Humane Society, responsible for monitoring animal safety, admitted flaws in its system, which only covered film sets and not housing facilities. A spokesman for Peter Jackson confirmed the deaths, acknowledging that some were preventable, and stated the production company invested significantly to improve conditions and no longer uses the farm. Jackson personally adopted three pigs from the production.