Following the significant backlash from its partnership with transgender activist Dylan Mulvaney, Anheuser-Busch launched a new Bud Light ad campaign. The summer-themed commercial, however, has been met with mixed reactions, sparking further debate online.
The new ad focuses on typical summer scenes: Americans camping, sunbathing, grilling, and ultimately finding relief with a can of Bud Light. The commercial noticeably avoids any LGBTQ+ themes or political statements, opting instead for a feel-good vibe set to Chic's 1979 hit "Good Times."
Despite the seemingly innocuous theme, the ad quickly drew criticism from some conservative beer drinkers. Some found the commercial uninspired and suggested the company revisit its older, more successful campaigns. Others expressed continued dissatisfaction with the brand, referencing the previous Mulvaney controversy.
Not all responses were negative. Some, like conservative radio host Jesse Kelly, saw the lighthearted approach as a potentially effective long-term strategy to rehabilitate the brand's image. Kelly suggested that consistently producing humorous and relatable content could gradually win back consumers.
The new campaign comes after Bud Light experienced a steep decline in sales and market value following the Mulvaney partnership. The company's attempt to move past the controversy with a more traditional ad has clearly not appeased all critics, highlighting the challenges the brand faces in regaining consumer trust.
