Are you offended by Sue Barker shooting the Go Compare tenor with a bazooka?
The Advertising Standards Authority has received 43 complaints about the TV commercial - do you agree with the critics?
Congratulations to Go Compare, who’ve joined the ranks of Paddy Power, Ryanair, Harvey Nicks and the like in getting a controversial ad talked about in the press and, as a result, enjoying bags of free publicity.
Yes, apparently the car insurance people’s latest commercial featuring singing moustache Gio Compario has caused 43 people such offence that they’ve picked up the phone and complained to the Advertising Standards Authority.
Why? Because the ad features none other than wholesome Sue Barker blasting the flamboyant tenor with a bazooka. And while many people might think that an entirely understandable course of action to take against our Gio, it’s given certain sectors of the public cause for concern.
The ASA said: “We have received a total of 43 complaints so far. Some people think it offensive, especially at a time when children are watching. Others think it inappropriate when our security forces are coming under fire on a daily basis.”
Commentators have also criticised the timing of the advert's first screening on Monday night, which followed the government's announcement of anti-aircraft batteries around London to fend-off terrorist attacks during the Olympics.
Watch the clip below and see what you think:
Gratuitously offensive? A not-especially-funny joke? Or completely harmless?
Do you think the ad needs yanking off British screens? Cast a vote in our poll and have your say...
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Immediate’s iconic brands reach 21m people every month – that’s more than a third of the UK’s adults – through its world-class magazines, innovative digital products and exciting live eventsImmediate’s iconic brands reach 21m people every month – that’s more than a third of the UK’s adults – through its world-class magazines, innovative digital products and exciting live eventsImmediate’s iconic brands reach 21m people every month – that’s more than a third of the UK’s adults – through its world-class magazines, innovative digital products and exciting live events