People want "offensive" Crown Paints advert banned after attracting hundreds of complaints
More than 200 people have complained to the UK Advertising Standards Authority.
People have been calling for an "offensive" Crown Paints advert to be banned, labelling it an example of "misogyny" and "everyday sexism."
The musical ad tells the story of Hannah and Dave and how they met at an illegal rave.
After years of being together, Dave asked Hannah if they should have a baby to which she replied "never".
However, later she changed her mind, with the ad stating: "She threw herself at Dave and said: 'Come on let's go.'"
The lyrics continue: "And now a baby's coming and they don't know what it is. Hannah’s hoping for a girl, Dave’s just hoping that it’s his.”
The Guardian reports that more than 200 people have complained to the UK's Advertising Standards Authority about the advert.
Some have described it as an example of "everyday sexism" because it implies that Hannah might not have been faithful in their relationship.
Hannah and Dave’s big news has meant a big change to their previously grey spare room 🎨
Whether you’re renovating an old home, or welcoming a baby into a new nursery, we’re here for you. For us, it’s #notjustpaint, #itspersonal
🔗 Discover more: https://t.co/ZiFAko4cHe pic.twitter.com/g5B4o5fgGW— Crown Paints (@crownpaints) August 8, 2022
One of those who voiced their anger at the advert was comedian Jenny Eclair.
In a tweet, she said the advert was "massively offensive" as its creators had "basically... set up a scenario that implies a woman has possibly conned a man into fatherhood".
Many others agreed, with some labelling "misogynistic" and a "disgrace."
Another tweeter said the advert plays to the "false narrative" that women who don't want children will always change their minds.
Replying to this, the Lancashire-based company said that they see Hannah as "an empowered female character, comfortable in making her own decisions and in control of if and when she changes her mind."
Hi Jenny. We are sorry you feel this way. We see Hannah as an empowered female character, comfortable in making her own decisions and in control of if and when she changes her mind.
— Crown Paints (@crownpaints) August 9, 2022
A spokeswoman for the firm told the BBC that the ads were "intended to be a humorous celebration of special life moments that prompt people to paint their homes, in this case focusing on Hannah and Dave, a happy couple expecting a baby together".
"Whilst the ad has been broadly well received, we appreciate that people have differing views on humour and we apologise if any of the lyrics have caused offence," they added.
The Advertising Standards Authority has confirmed it is "assessing the complaints to determine if there is a potential problem under our rules".
