Jason Derulo has been criticized by an animal welfare organization after videos surfaced of his home shark tank. The 36-year-old singer revealed his $1 million (£747,500) shark and stingray tank, which serves as a centerpiece in his living room, allowing people to walk over a see-through section as the animals swim below. The unique design divided opinions online.
Backlash on Social Media
As the clip circulated on TikTok, users quickly called out the singer. In the video, Derulo explained that it took a lot of effort to create the centerpiece, noting that he had to redo the design to make the sharks visible. He also described the cleaning schedule he maintains and revealed that he lets his son name the animals. However, many viewers expressed dissatisfaction, with one user simply writing, "Cruel," and another adding, "I mean, cool have a pet shark but make them a tank with room to actually move, like damn they have that little circle with no structure to live in and correct me if I’m wrong sharks live a good amount of years."
IFAW's Statement
Christian Plowman, Program Manager of Wildlife Cybercrime at IFAW, issued a strong statement against the singer. He said, "Sharks are facing severe pressures - threatened by overfishing, pollution and habitat destruction, with many species now considered endangered. They play a critical role in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. The recent seizure of more than 700 trafficked marine animals in Argentina is a stark reminder that the illegal ‘exotic’ pet trade extends far beyond the species most people think of. Sharks, rays and other marine animals are increasingly being targeted to satisfy demand for home aquariums and luxury displays."
Celebrity Influence
Plowman continued, "For some, these animals have become the ultimate status symbol. Singer Jason Derulo recently showcased a home shark tank. When celebrities and influencers with millions of followers treat wild animals as interior design features, the consequences reach far beyond their living rooms. Normalising the ownership of sharks in a domestic tank sends a damaging message to audiences around the world. If Derulo genuinely cares about these animals, he could use his platform as a powerful force for good."
Call to Action
Plowman urged Derulo to help educate people and challenge misconceptions about sharks. He added, "Help turn the tide on a trade that is pushing some of the world's most remarkable marine species closer to extinction. Right now, he is setting a bad example." In an urgent plea to the public, Plowman said, "IFAW urges the public not to like, share or engage with content that normalises the keeping of wild animals as pets. Every interaction feeds the algorithm - and ultimately, the trade. Sharks and other wild animals are not accessories. They are not floor displays. They are not pets."
