Brooke Shields, an incredibly popular and cherished actress and model, recently took a moment to reflect on a defining moment in her career – the controversial Calvin Klein advertisement from the 1980s. At the delicate age of 15, Brooke became the face of this unforgettable campaign, thrusting her into the limelight and sparking a massive wave of controversy.
This particular advertisement, known for being provocative, caused such a stir that it was even banned in some countries. Looking back, Brooke admits that she didn’t fully grasp the pornographic undertones of her line in the commercial at the time. Innocently, she delivered the now-iconic slogan, “Want to know what comes between me and my Calvins? Nothing.”
In a recent interview on the Armchair Expert podcast, Brooke shared her thoughts on how the media tends to oversexualize young actors and models. She used her experience as a model for Calvin Klein as an example. The aftermath of the controversial advertisement thrust her into a world of unexpected interviews, including one that left a lasting impact – her conversation with journalist Barbara Walters.
Reflecting on this particular interview, Brooke describes it as “practically criminal.” She felt confused and upset by the inappropriate questions she was asked. Barbara delved into personal matters like her body measurements and even probed into whether she had any secrets hidden from her own mother. It’s essential to remember that Brooke was just fifteen years old at the time.
In a recent interview with Vogue, Brooke opened up further about the negative feedback she received from the campaign. She recalls paparazzi shouting at her and her mother, leaving her 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 naiveté. “I believed it was expected that I was much more intelligent than I really was,” she admits. “I was a virgin at the time and remained so forever.”
Despite the controversy and backlash, the Calvin Klein campaign ironically ended up going viral, inadvertently propelling the brand to new heights. The attention may have been negative, but it undoubtedly piqued curiosity. 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 remains well aware of Calvin Klein’s infamous reputation. The brand continues to court controversy with its current advertising efforts, creating a buzz and garnering notoriety. Despite the criticism and condemnation they have faced over the years, Calvin Klein is a brand unafraid to take risks.
To catch a glimpse of the controversial Calvin Klein advertisement that launched Brooke Shields into the limelight, watch the video below. However, please be aware that the video may contain content that some viewers may find inappropriate.
