Have you ever heard of Brooke Shields? She’s a beloved actress and model who recently reflected on a moment that changed her career forever. I’m talking about her controversial Calvin Klein advertisement from the 1980s. It catapulted her into the spotlight, but also sparked a firestorm of controversy that she wasn’t prepared for.
At the tender age of 15, Brooke became the face of this memorable campaign. The advertisement, known for its provocative content, caused such a stir that it was even banned in some countries. Looking back, Brooke admits that she didn’t fully grasp the pornographic nature of her line in the commercial at the time. Naively, she innocently delivered the now-iconic slogan: “Want to know what comes between me and my Calvins? Nothing.”
In a recent interview, Brooke opened up about how the media often oversexualizes 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, but one in particular left a lasting impact – her sit-down conversation with journalist Barbara Walters.
Reflecting on that interview, Brooke describes it as “practically criminal.” She was just fifteen years old, yet she was asked inappropriate questions about her dimensions and whether she had any secrets hidden from her own mother. It’s no wonder she felt perplexed and upset by it all.
In another interview with Vogue, Brooke further discussed the negative feedback she received from the campaign. Paparazzi would yell at her and her mother, and she couldn’t make sense of the absurdity. It’s important to note that she never interpreted the slogan as having any sexual connotations. Brooke emphasizes her own innocence and gullibility, admitting that she believed people assumed she was smarter than she actually was. She was a virgin at the time and remained so forever.
Despite the controversy and backlash, the Calvin Klein campaign ironically went viral and propelled the brand to new heights. The attention may have been negative, but it certainly 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 keenly aware of Calvin Klein’s infamous reputation. The brand’s current advertising efforts still court controversy, garnering attention and notoriety. Despite the criticism and condemnation they have faced over the years, Calvin Klein is a brand unafraid to take risks.
If you’re curious to see the controversial Calvin Klein advertisement that brought Brooke Shields into the limelight, you can watch the video below. Just keep in mind that it may depict content that some viewers may find inappropriate.
