Networks Censor Plus-Size Lingerie Ad

While Victoria’s Secret Angels are clearly fine to prance around the networks, the commercial for Lane Bryant’s new lingerie line has been turned down. The company is pissed — and it’s openly saying so.

From Lane Bryant’s official blog:

ABC restricted our airtime and refused to show the commercial during “Dancing with the Stars.” Fox demanded excessive re-edits and rebuffed it three times before relenting to air it during the final 10 minutes of “American Idol,” but only after we threatened to pull the ad buy.

Yes, these are the same networks that have scantily-clad housewives so desperate they seduce every man on the block, and don’t forget Bart Simpson, who has shown us the moon more often than NASA, all in what they call “family hour.”

The company is smartly leveraging this moment to stoke up rage against Fox and ABC for refusing to show the ad in specific ways and at specific times. Moreover, when you watch the commercial it becomes clear that the retailer has a strong case — the ad is not in the least bit racy or offensive. Unless, of course, you’re offended at the uncovered sight of slightly more flesh on the bones than that of a Victoria’s Secret “angel.”

Update: Lane Bryant has released documents backing up its side of the story.

The Lingerie Commercial Fox And ABC Did Not Want Its Viewers To See [Lane Bryant]
Lane Bryant Says Fox, ABC Censored Sexy Spot [AdWeek]