11 Ads That Sparked National Outrage

Advertising is meant to grab attention, but sometimes it crosses a line and causes public backlash. Whether it was due to insensitivity, poor timing, or controversial imagery, some ads struck a nerve with viewers across the nation.

Tricia Quitales
October 27, 2025
5 min read

11 Ads That Sparked National Outrage — Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels

Controversial advertisements have the power to shift public perception, spark intense debates, and damage brand reputations in a matter of hours. Many companies have learned the hard way that bold marketing does not always equal effective communication. When ads mishandle social issues, exploit stereotypes, or misread the cultural mood, the consequences can be swift and widespread. Looking at these moments shows how easily a misstep in messaging can turn into a national conversation.

1. 1. Pepsi and the Kendall Jenner Protest Ad

In 2017, Pepsi released an ad featuring Kendall Jenner handing a soda to a police officer during a protest. The imagery suggested that a soft drink could solve deep-rooted social tensions. Viewers criticized the commercial for trivializing the Black Lives Matter movement. Pepsi quickly pulled the ad and issued a public apology. It became a defining example of tone-deaf marketing.

2. 2. H&M’s “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle” Hoodie

H&M faced global backlash after featuring a Black child wearing a hoodie labeled “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle.” Critics called the image racially insensitive and deeply inappropriate. The company removed the product and issued several statements of regret. Despite the apology, many customers boycotted the brand. The controversy highlighted the need for more diverse decision-making in advertising.

3. 3. Dove’s “Body Wash Transformation” Ad

Dove aired a short video in which a Black woman appeared to transform into a white woman after using their product. Viewers saw this as a harmful and outdated racial trope. The company said the message was misunderstood, but the damage was done. Critics pointed out a pattern in Dove’s past missteps. Social media quickly amplified the outrage.

4. 4. Hyundai’s Suicide-Themed Ad

Hyundai released a commercial showing a man attempting suicide inside one of their cars, only to fail due to the vehicle’s clean emissions. The ad was intended to showcase the car’s eco-friendly design. Instead, it was seen as incredibly insensitive to mental health issues. Hyundai pulled the ad and offered a formal apology. It reminded brands that shock value can backfire.

5. 5. Gillette’s “The Best Men Can Be” Campaign

Gillette launched an ad addressing toxic masculinity, bullying, and harassment. While some praised its message, others called it preachy and accused the brand of shaming men. The campaign triggered heated discussions across social media and news platforms. Despite the divide, Gillette stood by the ad’s message. It remains one of the most polarizing campaigns in recent years.

6. 6. Burger King’s “Women Belong in the Kitchen” Tweet

On International Women’s Day, Burger King UK tweeted “Women belong in the kitchen” as part of a campaign to promote female chefs. The shocking opening line sparked immediate backlash. Although the full campaign supported gender equality, the tweet was seen as tone-deaf and poorly executed. Burger King deleted the tweet and admitted the messaging failed. The uproar overshadowed the intended cause.

7. 7. Peloton’s “Wife Receives a Bike” Holiday Ad

A Peloton holiday ad showed a woman receiving a bike from her husband, then documenting her fitness journey. Viewers criticized the spot for promoting unrealistic body standards and suggesting a controlling relationship. The actress in the ad even spoke publicly about the unexpected backlash. Peloton stood by the ad initially but later acknowledged the criticism. It turned into a viral conversation about messaging and intent.

8. 8. Bloomingdale’s “Spike Your Best Friend’s Eggnog” Print Ad

Bloomingdale’s once ran a holiday ad that read, “Spike your best friend’s eggnog when they’re not looking.” The message was widely condemned for joking about consent and encouraging unsafe behavior. The brand apologized and pulled the ad, but the damage was already circulating online. Critics questioned how it made it through approval. It showed how tone-deaf humor can quickly cross a line.

9. 9. Nivea’s “White Is Purity” Campaign

Nivea ran a deodorant ad with the tagline “White is purity,” which was interpreted as racially insensitive. The campaign spread rapidly, especially among extremist groups who hijacked the message. Nivea immediately removed the ad and disavowed the interpretations. The incident underscored the importance of context in global branding. Poor wording can lead to dangerous associations.

10. 10. Groupon’s Super Bowl Tibet Ad

Groupon aired a Super Bowl ad that joked about the political struggles in Tibet while promoting local deals. Many viewers found it tasteless and exploitative. The backlash was swift, leading Groupon to pull the campaign. The company admitted it misjudged the tone. Even during high-profile events, sensitivity cannot be ignored.

11. 11. Dolce & Gabbana’s Chopsticks Ad in China

SVG conversion by Lokomotive74 on wikimedia

Dolce & Gabbana released a video featuring a Chinese model struggling to eat Italian food with chopsticks. It was meant to be playful but came across as patronizing and stereotypical. The ad was labeled culturally insensitive and sparked boycotts across China. The company’s founders added to the controversy with leaked messages online. It caused long-term damage to their brand reputation in Asia.