Before a couple of days ago, the word "Hallmark" was synonymous with Charlie Brown Christmas cards, predictable-yet-comforting holiday movies, and an all-around air of festivity that acted as a pillar of the holiday season.
However, what goes up must come down, right? That's how physics works?
They've subsequently issued an apology and promised to "reinstate" the commercial. Though this is an obvious damage-control move on the company's part, it's unclear just how much damage can actually be controlled here.
However, Zola's chief marketing officer Mike Chi told The Hollywood Reporter that this ad, in particular, was pulled because it featured a same-sex couple, as other ads with kissing heterosexual couples were approved.
"The only difference between the commercials that were flagged and the ones that were approved was that the commercials that did not meet Hallmark’s standards included a lesbian couple kissing," explained Chi. "All kisses, couples, and marriages are equal celebrations of love and we will no longer be advertising on Hallmark."
Even celebrities such as Ellen DeGeneres commented and gave their two cents: "Isn't it almost 2020?" DeGeneres wrote. "What are you thinking? Please explain. We're all ears."
"This is incredibly disappointing and disheartening," wrote Bridget Regan. "I thought Hallmark was all about spreading love—especially during this time of year."
There's an obvious contrast here between the kind of love and support Hallmark promotes and the actual values of their company. You've gotta practice what you preach.
Without mentioning Hallmark by name, the popular streaming service simply chose to recommend "Titles featuring lesbians joyfully existing and also it's Christmas can we just let people love who they love."
In their own tweet, Hallmark announced that they would be working to "reinstate" the Zola commercial, and would be subsequently working alongside the GLAAD organization in order to "better represent the LGBTQ community across [their] portfolio of brands."
Although it seems as though Hallmark has given their final word on the issue, the internet is likely far from discontinuing the conversation.
h/t: Mashable
