Brooke Shields: The Controversial Calvin Klein Ad That Shaped Her Career
Brooke Shields, a beloved actress and model, recently opened up about a defining moment in her career – her iconic Calvin Klein advertisement from the 1980s. At the age of 15, Brooke became the face of this unforgettable campaign, which thrust her into the spotlight while also igniting controversy.
The ad was notorious for its provocative content, causing such a stir that it was banned in certain countries. Looking back, Brooke admits that she didn’t fully comprehend the suggestive nature of her line in the commercial at the time. Naively, she innocently delivered the now-famous slogan, "Want to know what comes between me and my Calvins? Nothing."
In a recent interview on the Armchair Expert podcast, Brooke shed light on how the media often oversexualizes young actors and models, citing her own experience as a model for Calvin Klein. The aftermath of the controversial ad catapulted her into a world of unexpected interviews, including one that had a lasting impact – her conversation with journalist Barbara Walters.
Reflecting on that particular interview, Brooke describes it as "practically criminal." She felt perplexed and upset by the inappropriate questions she was asked. Barbara delved into personal matters like her dimensions and even probed into whether she had secrets hidden from her own mother. It’s crucial to remember that Brooke was only fifteen years old at the time.
In a recent interview with Vogue, Brooke further shared her experience of receiving negative feedback from the campaign. She recalls paparazzi yelling at her and her mother, feeling utterly bewildered by the absurdity of it all. She emphasizes that she never interpreted the slogan as having any sexual connotations, highlighting her own innocence and naivety. "I believed people assumed I was much more intelligent than I actually was," she admits. "I was a virgin at the time and remained so forever."
Ironically, despite the controversy and backlash, the Calvin Klein campaign ended up going viral, unintentionally propelling the brand to new heights. The attention may have been negative, but it undeniably generated interest. As a result, the company became synonymous with pushing boundaries and setting trends. Their advertising strategies, often criticized for being both inappropriate and seductive, have become iconic in the fashion industry.
Brooke Shields is well aware of Calvin Klein’s infamous reputation. The brand’s current advertising efforts continue to court controversy, garnering attention and notoriety. Despite the criticism and condemnation they have faced over the years, Calvin Klein remains a brand unafraid to take risks.
If you want to catch a glimpse of the controversial Calvin Klein advertisement that brought Brooke Shields into the limelight, watch the video below. However, please note that the content may be deemed inappropriate for some viewers.
