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For decades, Sarah McLachlan's haunting vocals and poignant lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide. But there's one aspect of her career that even the singer herself finds difficult to revisit: the infamous ASPCA commercial that launched a thousand donations (and countless memes). In a recent interview, McLachlan admitted the commercial, featuring images of sad shelter animals, is still “painful” to watch, even after all these years.

A Cultural Phenomenon

Launched in 2006, the commercial quickly became a cultural phenomenon. McLachlan’s performance of “Angel” against a backdrop of lonely-looking dogs and cats resonated deeply with viewers, prompting a surge in donations to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). While the commercial is credited with raising significant funds for animal welfare, it also sparked a wave of parody and satire, solidifying its place in internet history.

The Emotional Toll

Despite the positive impact of the commercial, McLachlan has consistently expressed discomfort with it. In a recent conversation with Billboard, she confessed, “I couldn’t watch it for a long time. It was just… painful.” She explained that seeing the images of abandoned and neglected animals while singing a song about loss and redemption was emotionally draining. “It's a very sad thing, and I’m singing a song about sadness, so it all just piles on,” she said.

Beyond the Commercial

McLachlan's commitment to animal welfare extends far beyond the ASPCA commercial. She has been a long-time supporter of animal rescue organizations and actively advocates for responsible pet ownership. Her own life reflects this dedication, as she is a passionate animal lover and has rescued numerous animals over the years.

The Lasting Legacy

The ASPCA commercial remains one of the most recognizable and effective public service announcements of all time. While McLachlan may find it difficult to watch, its impact on animal welfare is undeniable. The commercial serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting animal shelters and providing loving homes for animals in need. Even with the years of parody and jokes, the core message of compassion and responsibility resonates just as strongly today.

McLachlan’s candor about the emotional toll of the commercial offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of a cultural icon. It’s a testament to her authenticity and a reminder that even artists can be deeply affected by the work they do, particularly when it involves such sensitive subjects.