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Disney Star China Anne McClain Apologizes for Touching Endangered Sea Turtle in Hawaii

The actress faced backlash after posting a two-year-old video of the incident, prompting criticism from Hawaii's governor and social media users.

 Hawaiian green sea turtles at Hookipa Beach Park, Maui, Hawaii. 
China McClain at the Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2022.
China McClain can be seen here touching an endangered sea turtle in a video the star posted on Instagram this weekend. She has since removed the video.
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Overview

  • China Anne McClain, known for her Disney roles, posted a video showing her touching a resting sea turtle in Maui, Hawaii, which was filmed two years ago.
  • The video, shared on Instagram, garnered over half a million views and widespread criticism for its disregard of Hawaii's laws protecting endangered marine life.
  • Hawaii Governor Josh Green publicly urged McClain to educate herself on local laws and the importance of marine conservation, calling for the video to be removed.
  • McClain has since apologized, stating she was unaware of the laws at the time and expressing regret for any cultural or ecological harm caused.
  • Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources clarified that while touching turtles is discouraged and potentially harmful, the video does not provide sufficient context for legal action.