Mariah Carey, the undisputed Queen of Christmas, finds herself at the centre of an unexpected storm this festive season as her new holiday commercial faces mounting criticism from viewers and parenting groups alike.
The Controversial 'Touch of Christmas' Campaign
The advertisement, which promotes the singer's partnership with a multinational electronics brand, features Carey encouraging consumers to "give the touch of Christmas" by purchasing smart devices as gifts. This seemingly innocent marketing phrase has ignited fierce debate across social media platforms and parenting forums.
Why Are Parents So Angry?
Critics have labelled the campaign's messaging as "disgusting" and "inappropriate," arguing that it sexualises the festive season. Many parents have expressed concern about explaining the advert's double entendre to young children who are watching Christmas programming.
One frustrated parent commented: "My eight-year-old asked what 'touch of Christmas' means. How am I supposed to explain this without ruining the magic of the season?"
Social Media Erupts in Protest
Platforms including X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram have become battlegrounds for the debate, with thousands of users sharing their disapproval:
- "This is exactly what's wrong with modern Christmas - everything's become sexualised"
- "Mariah should know better than to approve this messaging"
- "Keeping the Christ in Christmas means keeping it family-friendly"
A Pattern of Seasonal Controversy
This isn't the first time holiday advertising has sparked public outcry. The incident follows similar controversies in recent years where major retailers have been accused of pushing boundaries with suggestive marketing campaigns during what many consider a family-oriented season.
Marketing experts suggest that while brands often seek to create buzz with provocative campaigns, the backlash indicates a miscalculation in understanding family audiences during the Christmas period.
As the debate continues to rage online, both the brand and Carey's representatives have yet to respond to the growing criticism. The controversy raises broader questions about where to draw the line in holiday marketing and whether some messages are better left unsent during the festive season.
