Save Me: How Brian May Risked Fame and Fury to Fight for Animals’ Lives

When one thinks of Brian May, the legendary guitarist of the iconic rock band Queen, images of electrifying performances, intricate guitar solos, and timeless hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody” often come to mind. However, beyond the stage and the spotlight, Brian May is a passionate advocate for animal rights, dedicating a significant part of his life to protecting animals from cruelty and exploitation. Through his tireless activism and the establishment of his organization, Save Me, in 2010, May has become a prominent figure in the fight against animal cruelty, particularly in opposing the hunting of foxes and badgers in the United Kingdom. This article explores May’s journey as an animal rights activist, his motivations, and the impact of his work in championing the cause of animal welfare.

A Musician with a Heart for Animals

Brian May’s love for animals is deeply rooted and has been a consistent thread throughout his life. Known for his gentle demeanor and intellectual curiosity, May has often spoken about his empathy for all living creatures. His passion for animals is not merely a personal sentiment but a driving force that has led him to take concrete actions to address their suffering. In 2010, he founded Save Me, a campaign named after a Queen song from their 1980 album The Game. The organization was established with a clear mission: to protect animals from cruelty, advocate for their rights, and challenge practices that exploit or harm them.

Save Me initially focused on opposing the hunting of foxes and badgers in the UK, practices that May and many others view as inhumane and unnecessary. Fox hunting, a traditional British activity, and badger culling, often justified as a measure to control bovine tuberculosis, have long been controversial. May’s organization has worked to raise awareness about the suffering these practices cause and to push for legislative changes to protect these animals. Through Save Me, May has organized protests, lobbied policymakers, and used his platform as a global celebrity to amplify the message of animal welfare.

The Roots of Save Me

The establishment of Save Me marked a turning point in May’s activism. While he had always cared deeply about animals, the decision to create a formal organization came from a desire to effect systemic change. In the UK, fox hunting was banned in 2004 under the Hunting Act, but loopholes and continued culling of badgers kept the issue alive. May saw an opportunity to use his influence to challenge these practices and educate the public about the ethical implications of hunting and culling.

Save Me’s work extends beyond foxes and badgers. The organization advocates for broader animal welfare issues, including the protection of wildlife, the promotion of humane farming practices, and the fight against animal testing. May’s commitment to these causes is evident in his hands-on approach. He has participated in rallies, written open letters to government officials, and engaged with the public through social media to spread awareness. His ability to connect with people, both as a musician and an activist, has made him a powerful voice in the animal rights movement.

A Voice for the Voiceless

One of May’s most significant contributions to animal rights is his ability to use his fame to draw attention to issues that might otherwise be overlooked. With millions of fans worldwide, his platform allows him to reach a diverse audience. Whether through interviews, documentaries, or posts on social media platforms like X, May consistently highlights the plight of animals and encourages others to take action. His authenticity and passion resonate with people, inspiring many to reconsider their own views on animal welfare.

In addition to his public advocacy, May has collaborated with other organizations and activists to amplify the impact of his work. He has supported campaigns by groups like the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) and worked alongside fellow activists to challenge policies that harm animals. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning him respect within the animal rights community and beyond.

Challenges and Controversies

Like any high-profile activist, May has faced challenges and criticism. Some argue that his focus on fox hunting and badger culling overlooks other pressing animal welfare issues, such as factory farming or the global wildlife trade. Others, particularly those in rural communities, defend hunting and culling as necessary for ecological or economic reasons. Despite these criticisms, May remains steadfast in his beliefs, emphasizing that his goal is to reduce suffering and promote compassion for all creatures.

The political landscape has also posed challenges. Efforts to repeal or weaken the Hunting Act have surfaced periodically, requiring May and his organization to remain vigilant. Additionally, the complexity of badger culling, which involves balancing animal welfare with agricultural concerns, has made it a contentious issue. May has approached these challenges with a combination of scientific rigor—drawing on his background as an astrophysicist with a PhD—and emotional appeal, urging policymakers to prioritize humane solutions.

A Lasting Legacy

Brian May’s work with Save Me and his broader advocacy for animal rights have left an indelible mark. His ability to bridge the worlds of music, science, and activism is a testament to his multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication. By founding Save Me, he has created a platform that will continue to advocate for animals long into the future. His efforts have also inspired countless individuals to take up the cause, whether by supporting animal welfare organizations, adopting cruelty-free lifestyles, or speaking out against injustice.

As a rock star, Brian May has entertained millions with his music. As an activist, he has given a voice to the voiceless, challenging society to rethink its treatment of animals. His legacy is one of compassion, courage, and a relentless pursuit of justice—not just for humans, but for all creatures that share our planet. Through Save Me and his ongoing activism, May continues to prove that one person, armed with passion and purpose, can make a profound difference in the world.