In a letter from a campaign co-ordinator for the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) UK, which calls itself one of the largest animal rights groups in the country, Lloyd was told that "a concerned member of the public informed us that while she had been sitting in the front row at a performance of Richard III, it appeared to her that the goldfish used in the production was 'ground up with the gravel and pushed up against the sides of the tank' while a cast member submerged himself in the tank and 'thrashed around wildly.' The abuse of animals is not entertainment, and a theatre production is really not a suitable environment for fish or any other animals. With this in mind, I would like to ask you to stop using live goldfish in the production." Responding on Twitter, Lloyd commented, "As a strict vegan, the safety & welfare of the goldfish in #RichardIII has been my top priority. They are growing & flourishing."

He also told PETA, "You've declined to see #RichardIII. The goldfish are thriving & well looked after. But, as a vegan, I've followed your recommendation."