18 Outrageous Ads from the Past That Actually Aired on TV
Many television ads from the past would be considered offensive or unacceptable by today’s standards, but they were once broadcast to wide audiences.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Television ads from decades ago reflect the social norms of their time. Some included racist, sexist, or harmful messages that would not be allowed today. These ads aired on major networks and were part of mainstream media, even though they promoted unhealthy or discriminatory ideas.
1. Cigarette Ads Featuring Doctors
Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation on Wikimedia Commons
In the 1950s and 1960s, cigarette companies aired commercials that showed doctors recommending specific brands. These ads claimed certain cigarettes were less harmful than others. Today, this would be illegal due to health regulations and misleading medical claims. The government banned such ads on TV in 1971.
2. Diet Ads That Promoted Extreme Thinness
Stevepb on Wikimedia Commons
Some diet product ads in the 1980s and 1990s showed women being praised only for losing weight. They suggested that being thin was the only way to be attractive or successful. These ads reinforced unhealthy body image standards. Today, such messages are heavily criticized and often restricted.
3. Skin Lightening Cream Commercials
Brunnaiz on Wikimedia Commons
Several ads in the past promoted creams that claimed to make skin “fairer” or “more beautiful.” These commercials implied lighter skin was better. They aired in different countries and were targeted at women, especially in Asia and Africa. Today, they are seen as racist and harmful.
4. Beer Ads That Objectified Women
Atwngirl on Wikimedia Commons
Many beer companies aired ads during the 1990s and early 2000s showing women in revealing outfits. These women were often used only as decoration to attract male viewers. The message often suggested women were rewards or props. Such ads would now face backlash for sexism.
5. Cleaning Product Ads That Targeted Only Women
Lever’s Zeepmaatschappij N.V on Wikimedia Commons
Household cleaning brands often showed only women using their products in the home. These ads pushed the idea that housework was a woman’s responsibility. They helped reinforce gender stereotypes. Today’s ads are more diverse and try to show shared roles.
6. Toy Ads That Excluded Girls or Boys
Western Wheel Works
Some toy commercials clearly separated what boys and girls should play with. Trucks, action figures, and science sets were shown only with boys, while dolls and kitchen sets were for girls. These ads sent strong messages about gender roles. Today, many companies avoid labeling toys this way.
7. Fast Food Ads That Encouraged Overeating
Bob Bybee on Wikimedia Commons
Fast food commercials in the 1980s and 1990s often promoted large portions and eating as much as possible. Some even joked about unhealthy eating. They rarely mentioned health or balance. Current ads focus more on options and nutrition.
8. Airline Ads with Sexist Slogans
Md Shaifuzzaman Ayon on Wikimedia Commons
Older airline ads featured female flight attendants being called “stewardesses” and focused on their looks. Some slogans suggested their role was to please male passengers. These ads were common until the late 1970s. Modern ads avoid this and focus on service and safety.
9. Perfume Ads That Romanticized Stalking Behavior
Hal Phyfe on Wikimedia Commons
Some fragrance commercials showed a man following or watching a woman without her knowing. These ads were framed as romantic. Today, this behavior is considered threatening and not acceptable. Ads like these are now rare and often criticized.
10. Car Ads That Encouraged Reckless Driving
Sam Hood on Wikimedia Commons
Car companies once aired ads that showed people speeding, drifting, or driving dangerously for fun. They suggested this made drivers more powerful or attractive. This type of messaging promoted unsafe behavior. Current safety laws now limit such content in ads.
11. Ads for Products That Claimed to “Cure” Homosexuality
Robert Ashworth on Wikimedia Commons
In the past, there were public service announcements and ads suggesting that being gay was something to be fixed. These ads promoted harmful and false information. They aired on TV in some regions in the 1960s and 1970s. Today, this type of content is banned and condemned.
12. Baby Formula Ads That Dismissed Breastfeeding
Sidway Mercantile Co. on Wikimedia Commons
Some formula companies ran ads that downplayed the benefits of breastfeeding. These ads often appeared in developing countries. They led to a drop in breastfeeding rates and caused public health concerns. Regulations now restrict how these products can be advertised.
13. Soda Ads That Targeted Children with High-Sugar Drinks
Armour Meat Packing Plant of Chicago on Wikimedia Commons
Many soft drink companies ran ads during children’s programming. They made sugary drinks seem like fun or necessary to fit in. These ads rarely mentioned health effects. Modern guidelines now limit such advertising during kids’ shows.
14. Soap Ads That Shamed Body Odor Harshly
Lux on Wikimedia Commons
Personal hygiene ads often exaggerated the shame of body odor or acne. They suggested that without a certain soap or spray, people would be disliked or judged. These messages caused anxiety and poor self-image. Advertising today is more cautious about tone and impact.
15. Food Ads with Racial Stereotypes
Hurbggorte Mmyrs on Wikimedia Commons
Some food brands used characters or voices based on harmful racial stereotypes. These ads were aired on major networks and were widely accepted at the time. Over time, public pressure led many companies to stop using these characters. They are now recognized as racist and outdated.
16. Prescription Drug Ads That Hid Side Effects
Infrogmation on Wikimedia Commons
Earlier ads for medication often promoted the benefits but barely mentioned side effects. They used upbeat music and images to distract from the risks. This led to concerns about consumer safety. Laws now require full disclosure of side effects in medical ads.
17. Ads That Promoted Spanking or Harsh Discipline
Library of Congress on Wikimedia Commons
Some older ads for parenting books or tools supported physical punishment. They suggested that spanking was a normal and necessary part of raising children. These messages were part of mainstream TV for decades. Today, they are widely condemned by psychologists and educators.
18. Hair Product Ads That Made False Promises
Fæ on Wikimedia Commons
Shampoo and hair product ads once made bold claims like “guaranteed to stop hair loss” or “grow your hair overnight.” These claims were often not backed by science. They aired frequently during the 1980s and 1990s. Truth-in-advertising laws now limit such statements.