A Controversial KFC Advert Sparks Debate Over Religious Imagery
An advertisement by fast-food giant KFC has stirred controversy due to its use of religious themes, drawing criticism from viewers who allege it mocks certain religious practices.
The commercial, which is part of KFC’s “Believe” campaign in the UK, depicts a tribal-like group in a forest setting. The tribe is shown repeatedly dropping a large golden egg to the rhythm of drums before arriving at a lake filled with gravy.
One tribe member, depicted as rigid and motionless, is submerged into the gravy lake, emerging as a piece of fried chicken, leading to jubilant celebrations among the group. The advert concludes with the slogan “Believe in Chicken” displayed prominently.
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has received nearly 600 complaints regarding the advert. Some viewers expressed concerns about its perceived mockery of baptism, while others pointed to deeper issues.
A critic on Marketing Beat labeled the advert as “disgraceful,” arguing it promotes “cultism, cannibalism and grooming.”
Created by the advertising agency Mother, the campaign aims to bring “lightness and levity to the chaotic world,” according to Monica Silic, KFC’s chief marketing officer for Britain and Ireland, as reported by Adweek.
The ASA has not yet made a decision regarding the complaints. Historically, it is uncommon for the ASA to prohibit adverts based on offending Christian sentiments, though there have been exceptions.
For instance, in 2008, the ASA banned some adverts from beauty brand Ghd. These featured lingerie-clad women seemingly praying for perfect hair, sometimes using rosary-like beads, ending with the phrase “Thy will be done.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
