Channel 4 has released a new promo, Complaints Welcome, which celebrates its on-screen talent by bringing to life complaints made about them.
The campaign
The unusual campaign features genuine complaints received by Channel 4 about its stars and shows. The campaign is part of a bid to highlight the broadcaster’s remit to stimulate debate and discussion.
Opening with Hollyoaks actor Keiron Richardson, he shares a kiss with his husband. Quoting a complaint he repeats, “I’m not homophobic but do we have to have gay kissing at dinner time?”
Prue Leith from The Great British Bake Off, reenacts her bad habit of speaking with her mouth full. Whilst fellow presenter Sandi Toksvi appears like a scene out of Top Gun, announcing that “she looks like Tom Cruise.”
Other stars include Grand Design’s Kevin McCloud, who’s “too posh”, Big Narstie who has faced criticism for being “too black”. Ceramic artist Grayson Perry also appears in the advert as his female alter-ego Claire. His complaint “it wouldn’t be so bad if he tried to make himself look like a woman.”
The advert also features Countdown’s Rachel Riley, who’s “outfit is inappropriate”, the Derry Girls who “need subtitles” and The Handmaid’s Tale “feminist propaganda.”
Ending with Mo Gillian, who has received no complaints, the chat show host winks into the camera.
Channel 4’s latest campaign has helped strengthen its core messaging as a channel that embraces diversity.
This clever film not only does a great job of highlighting the talent at the heart of Channel 4, but it also actively invites people to voice their issues to the complaintswelcome@channel4.co.uk email address.