Urbanization led to the popularity of traveling circuses, where animals like elephants became the first "entertainment celebrities".

, where wild animals are shown in unnatural settings (like a monkey wearing clothes). Research shows this can:

The landscape of animals in entertainment and media is undergoing a significant transformation in 2025 and 2026, driven by a growing tension between public fascination and ethical accountability. While traditional forms like circuses and marine parks face increasing legislative bans, digital media—particularly social media—has become a massive platform for animal-centric content, creating a complex impact on animal welfare and public perception. 1. Market Dynamics & Digital Media Growth