Animal lovers are calling for the cancellation of animal performances in the upcoming Spring Festival Gala hosted by China Central Television.

The criticism started on Sunday after an animal rights group in Beijing watched an interview with the gala's executive director, who disclosed that there will be animal performances during this year's gala.

Lyu Yitao, executive director of the gala, said in an interview with CCTV that animal performances can bring something fresh to the gala.