Micaela Schäfer, the 41-year-old tantalizing entertainer, yet again graces the headlines—this time for her provocative public appearances and controversial decisions concerning animal welfare. During her recent DJ performance at the Club Bielefeld, she once again stripped down, proudly displaying her provocative side, capturing the audience's attention with her audacious antics.
"Wie ihr wisst, bin ich ja oft als DJ unterwegs. Wenn es mir erlaubt wird, lege ich dabei auch einen heißen Strip hin" ("You know, I'm often out as a DJ. When I'm allowed, I also do a hot strip,"), Schäfer shared with Promiflash prior to the event. Her performance culminated with her releasing a video of her striptease on the adult platform BestFans, where she embraced her body with confidence to the tune of "Bella Ciao.” This unfiltered display was chosen deliberately to connect with her fans. "I want to show my fans they can experience me as I am—unfiltered, self-assured, and uncompromising," she added, advocating for body positivity and emotional connection through her art.
Historically known for creating shockwaves with her outfits, Schäfer did not disappoint during the recent Dschungelcamp (Jungle Camp) party hosted by Julian F.M. Stöckel. Dressed minimally with just a glittery bikini top and banana skirt, she stole the show by walking the red carpet with a living monkey on her shoulder—her latest and most controversial accessory yet. This appearance, especially the monkey, quickly ignited backlash from animal rights activists.
The German animal rights organization PETA found the incident unacceptable, expressing outrage over the use of the primate as part of her ensemble. Dr. Yvonne Würz, PETA's biologist and expert on animals within the entertainment industry, did not hold back, proclaiming, "Affen haben auf dem roten Teppich nichts zu suchen – derartige Auftritte sind eine grauenvolle Tortur für die sensiblen Wildtiere" ("Monkeys do not belong on red carpets - such appearances are a horrific torture for sensitive wild animals.") She emphasized the broader consequences of Schäfer's actions, stating, "It sends the wrong message—that living beings can be used for human amusement. We hope to encourage her to rethink her decisions—animals are sentient creatures, not accessories."
Defiant against the criticism, Schäfer responded unfazed. She clarified during her red carpet moment, asserting, "Das ist aber viel Aufregung um nichts" ("But that's quite the fuss about nothing"). She claimed the monkey was specially trained for such environments and was accustomed to the flashing lights and noise. "I always bring some company, and this time, it happened to be with my little monkey—fitting for the theme!"
The controversy did not end there. The fallout from her decision to use the monkey has potential legal ramifications as PETA has formally lodged charges against the animal trainer. Dr. Würz expressed concern for the ethical treatment of the animal, stating, "Exhibiting animals as visual extravagances on red carpets contributes to the idea they can be treated as disposable playthings, rather than beings deserving of protection and respect."
Despite the backlash, Schäfer’s inclination to provoke continues unabated. "Of course, there are always those who say: 'Oh God, animal rights' and 'How could you do this with an animal?' But honestly, I don’t care. I've always done what I want," she stated. She maintained, there was even veterinary supervision present ensuring the monkey's well-being, which she believes could counteract claims of misconduct.
This scenario presents growing tensions between public persona, artistic expression, and the ethical responsibilities surrounding the use of animals within the entertainment sector. Though she seeks to innovate and captivate her audience through shock value, critics argue it's at the cost of vulnerable creatures caught up in the spotlight. Schäfer is no stranger to triggering discussions around social norms, but this recent incident highlights the escalated dialogue about consent, agency, and the moral ramifications of entertainment choices.
Micaela Schäfer’s latest escapades undoubtedly stir conversation, and the guiding principle she adheres to is clear: to stand out and grab attention at any cost. Whether or not her methods reach beyond provocation to accountability remains to be seen. The outcomes of PETA's pursuits could help shape how public figures choose to express their art when it involves the living. For the sake of both art and animal welfare, stakeholders will undoubtedly be watching closely.