Crown Paints advert receives 200 complaints over ‘misogyny’ and ‘everyday sexism’

More than 200 people have complained to the Advertising Standards Authority.

People have been calling for  an “offensive” Crown Paints advert to be banned, labelling it an example of “misogyny” and “everyday sexism.”

The musical ad tells the story of Hannah and Dave and how they met at an illegal rave.

After several years of being together, they decide to have children and Hannah ‘throws herself at David.’

The lyrics continue: “Hannah’s hoping for a girl, Dave’s just hoping that it’s his.”

It is this that has offended many.

The Guardian reports that more than 200 people have complained about the advert, with some describing it as an example of “everyday sexism” because it implies that Hannah might not have been faithful in their relationship.

Hannah and Dave’s big news has meant a big change to their previously grey spare room 🎨

Whether you’re renovating an old home, or welcoming a baby into a new nursery, we’re here for you. For us, it’s #notjustpaint, #itspersonal

🔗 Discover more: https://t.co/ZiFAko4cHe pic.twitter.com/g5B4o5fgGW

— Crown Paints (@crownpaints) August 8, 2022

One of those who voiced their anger at the advert was comedian Jenny Eclair.

In a tweet she said the advert was “massively offensive” as its creators had “basically… set up a scenario that implies a woman has possibly conned a man into fatherhood”.

Many others agreed, with some labelling “misogynistic” and a “disgrace.”

I always used to use @crownpaints….but it'll be @duluxuk from now on….well done on losing so many customers with one ill thought out & misogynistic ad.

— Kath Dixon (@kdnightporter) August 11, 2022

Excuse me – Dave just hopes that it’s his? Genuinely, what were you thinking. This is a disgrace.

— Alex Lacey (@FaceOfLace) August 9, 2022

A third said the advert plays to the “false narrative” that women who don’t want children will always end up changing their minds.

Replying to this, the Lancashire-based company said that they see Hannah as “an empowered female character, comfortable in making her own decisions and in control of if and when she changes her mind.”

Hi Jenny. We are sorry you feel this way. We see Hannah as an empowered female character, comfortable in making her own decisions and in control of if and when she changes her mind.

— Crown Paints (@crownpaints) August 9, 2022

A spokeswoman for the firm told the BBC that the ads were “intended to be a humorous celebration of special life moments that prompt people to paint their homes, in this case focusing on Hannah and Dave, a happy couple expecting a baby together”.