Ashton Kutcher is in headlines again, this time for his role in an offensive new campaign for Popchips.
The campaign features Kutcher as four different bachelors looking for love through a World Wide Lovers dating service, and one character in particular really turned people off: an Indian named Raj. Kutcher’s performance as Raj, a ‘bollywood producer, has him dressed in traditional Indian clothing with a brown face and speaking in a stereotypical ‘Indian accent’, saying things about giving the Kardashians his ‘bone.’
Popchips initially issued a statement declaring the campaign was “never intended to stereotype or offend anyone” and adding, “We hope people can enjoy this in the spirit it was intended.” But soon after the statement was released, the video was pulled from the Popchips’ Youtube channel.
Popchips CEO Keith Belling said in an official statement:
“We received a lot feedback about the dating campaign parody we launched today and appreciate everyone who took the time to share their point of view. Our team worked hard to create a light-hearted parody featuring a variety of characters that was meant to provide a few laughs. We did not intend to offend anyone. I take full responsibility and apologize to anyone we offended.”
The campaign was developed by Popchips, Ashton Kutcher, and the ad agency Zambesi. Ashton Kutcher has yet to issue a statement or apology.