4 chapters across the catalog
The hosts examine the possibility that the global news coverage of Cecil the Lion was a coordinated promotional push for the CBS summer series Zoo. They describe the show's premise involving animals rebelling against humans and note its poor critical reception and ratings despite the timely real-world controversy.
The killing of Cecil the Lion by American dentist Walter Palmer has led to a massive public outcry and a surge in conservation donations. Nearly $860,000 was raised for lion protection in Zimbabwe within a week, and Ty Inc. announced a Cecil the Lion Beanie Baby to benefit Oxford University's Wildlife Conservation Research Unit. Contrast is drawn between Western outrage and the perspective of Zimbabweans who view lions as dangerous predators.
The global outcry over Cecil the Lion is analyzed as a potential media distraction from the Planned Parenthood undercover videos. Conflicting reports emerge regarding the death of Cecil's brother, Jericho, with GPS data suggesting the animal is still alive. Photos of Donald Trump Jr. posing with hunting trophies are also discussed as part of the media narrative.
The discussion begins with a check-in on the Jade Helm 15 military exercise rumors in Austin, Texas. The focus shifts to the global media outrage surrounding Cecil the Lion, a famous lion killed by an American dentist in Zimbabwe. A BBC clip featuring the Born Free Foundation introduces the complexities of the trophy hunting industry and its role in conservation.
