In documentary response, family says killed SeaWorld trainer thought whales were treated well

ORLANDO, Fla. – The family of a SeaWorld trainer who died in 2010 when a killer whale pulled her into the water is commenting about a documentary critical of animal captivity at the marine parks.

Trainer Dawn Brancheau’s family members said Tuesday on the website for The Dawn Brancheau Foundation that they’ve been repeatedly asked about how they feel about the documentary “Blackfish” since its release last year.

Family members say Brancheau wouldn’t have worked at SeaWorld for 15 years if she didn’t think the whales were well-cared for.

They say they continue to support her former co-workers who still train with the marine animals.

Brancheau was grabbed and drowned by the six-ton killer whale Tilikum after a show in February 2010.

Since the documentary, several entertainers have pulled out of planned performances at the parks.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

Mike Schneider

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles