- is the target of strong criticism on social networks, after refusing to broadcast, on the occasion of the Bye Bye from December 31, an advertisement featuring Guillaume Lemay-Thivierge, for fear of causing “controversy”.
• Also read: ON VIDEO | Guillaume Lemay-Thivierge appears in a furniture advertisement
This ad represents the first significant media appearance of the host and comedian, since he had to apologize for making a racist joke nine months ago.
“We did not accept the advertising concept of Meubles RD including the participation of Guillaume Lemay-Thivierge for broadcast during the Bye Bye», Confirmed by email Guylaine O’Farrell first director, internal and external strategy at CBC/-.
The company Meubles RD launched a 30-second video message on Friday featuring the fallen actor and host after a controversy which caused him to lose all his contracts last March.
“At Meubles RD, they really cut everywhere to offer you the best prices. So the only artist I could invite for the end of the year is someone who is really, really cheap,” says comedian and spokesperson for Meubles RD, Jérémy Demay, in the introduction.
«Nice intros! […] There are many things that I am not, but available, yes,” replies Mr. Lemay-Thivierge with self-deprecation.
Controversial posts banned
Strongly criticized by several Internet users on social networks for this decision, - invokes, to justify itself, an article in its advertising code prohibiting it from broadcasting any message “which could place the SRC [Société -] at the center of a controversy or public debate.
Questioned by The JournalGuylaine O’Farrell refused to explain how Meubles RD’s advertising crossed this line. However, we can assume that it is the presence of Guillaume Lemay-Thivierge that is disturbing.
“Meubles RD will still have its advertising space during the broadcast of the Bye Bye and will broadcast advertising other than that proposed in the concept in question,” specified the spokesperson for the state-owned company.
“We understand this decision,” Philippe Allaire, Marketing Director at Meubles RD, simply commented by email.
“We understand that reactions may vary, but our intention is to entertain while remembering our promise to always offer the best prices to our customers,” he explained, while specifying that the ad will ultimately be broadcast on Noovo, VAT and social networks.
