“Babe” Star James Cromwell Remembers Going Vegan on the ‘Second Day of Filming’

Renowned Actor James Cromwell Converts to Veganism During ‘Babe’ Filming

James Cromwell, famous for his roles in movies like ‘Babe’ and ‘Succession,’ recently shared a remarkable anecdote about his switch to veganism during the filming of the iconic children’s movie ‘Babe.’ While portraying the character of Farmer Hoggett in the 1995 film, Cromwell’s encounters with the farm animals on set inspired a profound change in his dietary choices.

As reported by Sabrina Weiss on July 21, 2025, Cromwell vividly recalled a pivotal moment during the second day of filming when he observed the animals he worked with being served as meals on set. This jarring experience prompted him to make a life-altering decision to adopt a plant-based diet. The emotional connection he felt with the animals led him to choose compassion over consumption.

In ‘Babe,’ Cromwell’s character, Farmer Hoggett, defies convention by forming a special bond with the titular piglet instead of sending it to slaughter. This narrative of empathy and kindness resonated deeply with Cromwell, reinforcing his commitment to animal welfare both on and off the screen. The film’s heartwarming story mirrored Cromwell’s own journey towards veganism.

Behind the scenes of ‘Babe,’ Cromwell shared insights into the camaraderie and challenges of working with a diverse group of animals, including ducks, sheep, horses, and border collies. The dedication of the animal trainer and the cast members resulted in memorable scenes that captivated audiences worldwide. Cromwell’s admiration for the intelligence and personalities of pigs, exemplified by Babe, further strengthened his belief in the ethical treatment of animals.

Reflecting on the impact of ‘Babe,’ Cromwell acknowledged that the film had influenced viewers’ perceptions of food and animals. Despite some resistance to dietary changes, particularly from one viewer who lamented the movie’s impact on her family’s eating habits, Cromwell remained steadfast in his advocacy for animal rights. His portrayal of Farmer Hoggett continues to inspire compassion and understanding towards all living beings.

An active supporter of animal rights organisations like PETA, Cromwell’s commitment to rescuing animals extends beyond the silver screen. In a poignant gesture, Cromwell assisted in saving a piglet named Babe from slaughter in 2023, honouring the legacy of the beloved character from the film. His actions exemplify the profound impact that storytelling and empathy can have in promoting a more compassionate world.

James Cromwell’s poignant journey from Hollywood actor to passionate vegan advocate serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and inspiring positive change. Through his role in ‘Babe’ and his real-life activism, Cromwell continues to touch hearts and minds, encouraging others to reflect on their relationship with animals and the food they consume. His transformative experience on the set of ‘Babe’ remains a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and kindness in our interactions with all beings.

As we celebrate James Cromwell’s enduring commitment to animal welfare and veganism, his story invites us to reconsider our choices and embrace empathy as a guiding principle in our lives.

The impact of ‘Babe’ and James Cromwell’s personal journey underscore the profound connection between art, activism, and advocacy, reminding us of the transformative potential of storytelling in shaping hearts and minds.