OSAKA — Renowned American dolphin trainer Ric O'Barry has dedicated his life to freeing captured dolphins worldwide. In a new documentary, he hopes to educate both Japanese and international audiences about the slaughter of the mammals in Taiji, Wakayama Prefecture, and the hazards of eating dolphin meat with high levels of mercury.
O'Barry gained fame as the trainer of captured dolphins for the popular 1960s U.S. TV series "Flipper." But when one died in his arms, he had an epiphany and chose to dedicate his life to freeing dolphins.
"I spent 10 years building up the dolphin training industry and 30 years trying to change it. Wherever there's a dolphin in trouble, I'll be there," O'Barry said.