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The commercial has sparked a massive reaction. (Photo courtesy of Rachel Joseph/C4)
TFL has announced that a Channel 4 advertisement for the program Nude Attraction, which humorously says passengers “enjoy being naked,” will be removed from their network.
The broadcaster has already apologized for the commercial, which seems to be a failed effort at a tongue-in-cheek joke.
The image of a TFL bus linked shows an advertisement panel for a C4 program that invites participants to select a prospective mate based on how they seem nude.
With arrows pointing upwards to the person seated inside the vehicle, it includes three descriptions of possible individuals who may be passengers on the bus.
One says, “Loves Naked Attraction,” another says, “Hates Naked Attraction,” while the third says, “Loves Being Naked.”
‘We work hard to ensure public transportation is a safe environment for everyone, and any allegation of sexual assault or improper behavior is investigated and taken very seriously,’ a TFL spokesman told Metro.co.uk.
‘After reviewing the ad campaign, we have determined that it should no longer be shown on our bus network.’ It will be taken down as soon as possible.’
It comes after Channel 4 issued an apology to Metro.co.uk, saying, “This commercial is based on a Channel 4 entertainment show.”
‘It was not our goal to offend anybody, and we apologize if we did.’
Naked Attraction’s Anna Richardson (Image courtesy of Channel 4)
After Twitter user @tkingdot shared a photo of the ad on a TFL bus online, the ad went viral.
‘What the heck is this weird bus ad?’ she said of the announcer. You can’t simply slap a label on non-consenting passengers.
‘Does @Channel4 have any idea how many sexual assaults occur on buses?’
Although the broadcaster is renowned for its unorthodox techniques, many people thought the banner, which was titled “Altogether Different,” was a step too far.
Others were quick to react to the commercial, with several calling it “scary” and reminding the broadcaster of youngsters on a bus.
‘Not only in London,’ one person commented. On Saturday, I saw it on @on lothianbuses in Edinburgh. I was astounded that they felt this was okay.’
Another said, “@Channel4 is going to look very scary when school kids come on.”
‘That’s strange at best and nasty at worst,’ remarked a third. What the heck is going on here? These buses are used by children.’
‘This might be a little ridiculous in a perfect world, but my goodness, read the room!’ a fourth echoed
The discussion was initiated by King, who went on to say that the topic of jokes made in this manner should not be a “sexualized one.”
Naked Attraction is now available to watch on All 4.
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