NBC vs NFL: M.I.A.’s Middle Finger Stunt

Madonna Super Bowl 2012 - AP Photo

As we mentioned yesterday and suspected, eventually reports of the pop star, Madonna, being upset about the stunt at the half-time show at the Super Bowl would surface.  No official word by Madonna nor M.I.A. have been released as of our last review, but NBC and the NFL did provide some surprising statements which we didn’t anticipate to occur.   

According to MSN.com, NBC released the following, “We apologize for the inappropriate gesture that aired during half-time. It was a spontaneous gesture that our delay system caught late.”  While according to the CelebrityCafe.com, the NFL released the statement of, “There was a failure in NBC’s delay system. The obscene gesture in the performance was completely inappropriate, very disappointing, and we apologize to our fans.”

Let the “finger-pointing” commence!  NBC also stated the following, “The NFL hired the talent and produced the halftime show. Our system was late to obscure the inappropriate gesture and we apologize to our viewers.”

Now we understand the financial thought process being used by both parties.  Neither wants to receive the impeding fine.  (Don’t forget CBS dished out $500K for Janet Jackson‘s wardrobe mishap 8 years ago.)  But we would like to say, if Above Promotions Company were the official consultant to both the NFL and NBC, we would fully recommend the two giant companies ban together to issue one statement.  Which would go as follows:

“The NFL and NBC worked diligently to ensure a high quality family oriented program for the Super Bowl fans.  An appropriate plan of action was put into place for execution by staff and all performers.  Even with such measures in place, the talent for the halftime show was the one area we would not expect a failure in the plan and did anticipate to receive full cooperation and respect for the audience.  As such we will continue our internal investigation of this incident and will expect the performer involved to meet with our representatives soon to discuss the damages to our brands and disrespect to the public.”

What do you think?  Would you stand alone or unite to protect your brand’s image?

The Super Bowl: It’s Never Just a Sporting Event

Victoria Secret Model Gisele Bundchen - Photo Courtesy of Fox Sports

While we originally planned to discuss the various commercials that aired during the Super Bowl last Sunday and which ones were fan favorites, it became clearer that there was so much that the public had to say about the evening instead of the game. 

So let’s recap:

Racy ads under scrutiny.  Teleflora, Toyota, M&Ms and H

Chrysler’s ad feature Clint Eastwood and the assumed partisan love to President Barack Obama. 

M.I.A. gives the middle finger during the halftime performance with Madonna.

Gisele Bundchen responding to a heckler after the New England Patriots lose the Super Bowl.

If you had to vote, which topic requires an apology to the public? 

And here you thought it was just another football game.

Stay tuned with us this week as we discuss some Public Relations – Crisis Communication points this week for a couple of them.

It’s Superbowl Weekend! Are you ready for …

It’s the NFL Superbowl Weekend!  Retailers not only in Indianapolis, but in cities across America, are excited about this weekend.  From grocery to clothing stores and even tech companies, look forward to this weekend.  It is the blip on the entrepreneur’s radar that takes time to prepare for and helps generate jobs and cash for businesses.

Are you ready for the commercials?

We’ve already seen a few commercials featuring Matthew Broderick for Honda and Jerry Seinfeld for Acura.  What else will be unveiled and go viral?

Are you ready for the social media updates?

Businesses have stepped up their social media campaigns to tweet offers and field responses.  What topics will make the trends list?

Are you ready for the parties?

Stores will appreciate the surge in purchases over the weekend for food, electronics and clothing items.

Whether you’re a sports fan or not, this weekend is full of things to give your business or personal life a brief buzz.

Oh wait!  This post should have something in it about either NFL teams,the New York Giants or New England Patriots… Wonder who will win? 

Enjoy the festivities and be sure to check back with us on our thoughts on the best commercials that aired!