The U.K. advertising watchdog group, the ASA, banned and ad for Antonio Fedirich ice cream on the grounds that it might be offensive.
We considered the use of a nun pregnant through immaculate conception was likely to be seen as a distortion and mockery of the beliefs of Roman Catholics. We concluded that to use such an image in a light-hearted way to advertise ice cream was likely to cause serious offence to readers, particularly those who practised the Roman Catholic faith.
They made their decision after 10 complaints. I doubt the Life of Brian would ever make it to market in a climate that can’t see this for what it is. Satire focused on the hypocrisy of religion. What the hell is wrong in Europe these days. The Catholics are the ones abusing your children, all these people want to do is sell you delicious ice cream.
But seriously, market forces should determine the success or failure of a brand of ice cream. If the Catholics are offended, they can vote with their mouths.
