The Most Controversial Super Bowl Commercial of 2020
The annual Super Bowl event is not just about the game and the halftime show. It is also a platform for brands to showcase their creativity and connect with their audience through commercials that can sometimes be controversial. Let's take a closer look at some of the most talked-about and controversial Super Bowl commercials from 2020.
Quicken Loans and Jason Momoa
One of the standout commercials of the 2020 Super Bowl was the Quicken Loans ad featuring actor and myself, Jason Momoa. The ad, which aired during the Super Bowl, was widely criticized for its aggressive tone and the use of a moment from the movie Action Jackson, which some felt was overly dramatic and offensive. The backlash was so intense that many viewers took to social media to voice their opinions, sparking a heated debate about the appropriateness of the commercial.
Oikos Greek Yogurt and “Bubble Butt”
Another ad that sparked controversy was the Oikos Greek Yogurt commercial, but unfortunately, it did not air nationally due to the sensitive content. The commercial featured contestants in a Greek yogurt eating contest, with one participant boasting about her "bubble butt," an allusion to her being overweight. While this commercial did not make it to air, it still caused a stir on social media as people debated whether the brand’s marketing tactics were responsible and respectful.
T-Mobile: A Mother’s Reprimand
A commercial that many found particularly offensive was the T-Mobile ad during the Super Bowl. In this ad, a celebrity's mother passionately scolds theater patrons for using their smartphones during a movie screening. This unexpected and confrontational scene drew criticism from viewers who felt it promoted rude and inconsiderate behavior. The backlash was so significant that T-Mobile was pressured to issue a public apology. The ad served as a reminder of the delicate balance between engaging and promoting good behavior in advertisements.
Bloomberg and Gun Control
Another controversial commercial from the 2020 Super Bowl was Bloomberg’s ad related to gun control. The commercial, which did not air as initially planned, faced significant backlash due to its controversial stance on gun control. Critics argued that the ad was insensitive and uncalled for, especially given the recent tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School. The commercial faced so much scrutiny that it was reportedly pulled by the network due to its controversial nature.
Lessons from These Controversial Commercials
The commercials mentioned above offer important lessons for brands. They highlight the need for sensitivity and the impact of messages on their audience. Brands must carefully consider their messaging and visual content to avoid offending or alienating potential customers. The power of social media and public opinion has made it more crucial than ever for brands to be mindful of how their advertisements are received.
Ultimately, the most successful brands are those that not only connect with their audience but do so in a way that is thoughtful, respectful, and builds a positive image. As the Super Bowl continues to be a prime marketing opportunity, it is clear that brands must tread carefully to ensure their advertisements resonate with viewers without causing unnecessary controversy.