Ricky Gervais Criticizes Ad Bans on Vodka Brand Amid Public Debate

Ricky Gervais has publicly expressed frustration and anger over the repeated rejection of advertisements for his vodka brand, Dutch Barn, by advertising authorities and partners, particularly regarding campaigns intended for London's Underground. His banned ads have included provocative slogans such as "Don't forget your stab vest" and "Enjoy life. You'll be dead soon," which the authorities reportedly declined for potentially encouraging excessive drinking or being too controversial. Gervais's response included a viral, expletive-filled rant on social media, where he criticized the censorship, claimed some ads were unfairly banned, and announced plans to sell the vodka directly to customers online. Transport for London clarified that the adverts were not rejected by them but by their advertising partners following the Committees of Advertising Practice's feedback, and that alternative ads had been approved and were running. The controversy gained additional attention following a tragic mass stabbing attack on a train in England, which some linked to the timing of Gervais's provocative "stab vest" ad. Despite the backlash, Gervais continues to use his platform to promote Dutch Barn while challenging advertising restrictions, highlighting the tension between creative expression and regulatory standards in advertising.