Disney+ UK Removes The Abyss Over Animal Scene

James Cameron's 1989 sci-fi film The Abyss was removed from Disney+ in the UK after renewed controversy over a scene where a real rat is submerged in fluorocarbon liquid, which has been banned by the BBFC for animal cruelty. The scene had been cut from all prior UK releases but appeared in the recent 4K remaster made available on Disney+. The RSPCA criticized Disney for exploiting a streaming loophole to show the banned content and advocated for the film's return with the scene removed, emphasizing concerns over animal abuse rather than 'cancel culture.' The film, starring Ed Harris and nominated for four Oscars, had been difficult to access before the remaster. The incident draws attention to broader regulatory gaps in how streaming services handle content censored in traditional media. No date has been set for the film’s return to Disney+ UK in edited form.