Once again, social media is ablaze with criticism directed at a particular brand. This time, the target of Twitter’s collective wrath is Peloton and the Peloton Girl, the upscale fitness company founded in 2012 and headquartered in New York City. Predominantly known for its pricey stationary bike, costing well over $2,000, the company also offers a range of exercise equipment and apparel. The bike comes equipped with a monitor, enabling users to stream live and recorded spin classes through a monthly subscription, all within the comfort of their homes.
Perhaps you recall Peloton’s previous holiday commercial from November 2017, featuring an array of perspiring individuals pedaling in luxury high-rises, while the energetic sounds of Aussie songstress Sia’s “Greatest” filled the air. While we may not be experts in the complex dynamics between a brand and its advertising, one thing was clear: Peloton’s marketing efforts were yielding results, evidenced by its increasing number of U.S. members, surpassing even that of SoulCycle. Everything seemed to be going well until the unfortunate misstep during the holiday season of 2019.
In the most recent ad, titled “The Gift That Gives Back,” which premiered on YouTube just before Thanksgiving, a woman (aka Peloton Girl or Peloton Wife) receives a Peloton bike as a gift from her husband. From that moment forward, she diligently clips in every day, meticulously tracking her sweat sessions in a video diary. “Five days in a row. You surprised? I am,” she proudly exclaims. The video diary holds a special surprise at the end: it’s a gift for her husband.
Now, you might wonder, what’s all the fuss about? The woman was already slim before embarking on this fitness journey, and the addition of the Peloton bike seems rather unnecessary in the context of their luxurious lifestyle. The video diary has raised eyebrows as it’s perceived by some as a tool for the “Man of the House” to keep his wife in shape. This interpretation has set social media abuzz with opinions. If you haven’t seen the ad yet, you can check it out here.
In a statement provided to CNBC, the company expressed that their holiday spot was crafted to celebrate the journey of fitness and wellness. Despite some misinterpretations of the commercial, they find solace in the support and understanding it has garnered from others.
Nevertheless, the backlash against the ad has been swift and intense. Criticisms labeling it as “privileged,” “sexist,” and “dystopian” have proliferated, drawing comparisons to the unsettling British tech-horror series, Black Mirror. Adding to the fallout, Peloton’s stock experienced a significant 9 percent decline the day after the outrage reached its peak, resulting in a staggering $1 billion loss for the company. However, the apex of this advertising debacle has manifested in the form of the infamous Peloton Girl meme.
Who is the Peloton girl? Internet searches for actress in viral commercial
Amidst the fierce criticism, there arose an even more fervent desire to uncover the identity of the actress featured in the Peloton commercial. Throughout various social media platforms, internet sleuths tirelessly sought the answer, drawing comparisons and likening her to other actresses, such as Emmy Rossum and Jessica Alba.
Twitter user @EvanJKessler tweeted, raising questions about whether the Peloton Girl needed assistance, hinting at the potentially unsettling undertones of the ad. On Reddit, another user remarked on the actress’s constant look of terror, seeking information about her identity and recognizing her from a hallmark movie.
The Peloton Girl herself, identified as Ruiz, decided to clear the air during an interview with “Today” host Hoda Kotb. She acknowledged that, as the backlash continued and others began to speak on her behalf, she felt compelled to address the situation and reassure everyone that she was doing well. Reflecting on the negative reaction, Ruiz believed it primarily stemmed from her facial expressions, particularly her worried-looking eyebrows and scared appearance.
Since then, Ruiz has moved forward with her career, appearing in an advertisement for Ryan Reynolds’ gin company, Aviation, and securing a guest-starring role on “The Bold and the Beautiful.”
In addition to the actress, there is also another key figure from the Peloton commercial who has shared his perspective. Sean Hunter, the actor portraying the husband in the ad, has spoken out about the intense reactions it received.
In an interview with Good Morning America, Sean Hunter expressed his dismay at how things escalated into a negative and unpleasant situation. He noticed that once something goes viral, people tend to latch onto the negativity and create their own interpretations and discussions around it. The situation took a dark turn, and the actor, who is also a teacher, found himself caught in the storm of public scrutiny.
In addition to the actress, there is also another key figure from the Peloton commercial who has shared his perspective. Sean Hunter, the actor portraying the husband in the ad, has spoken out about the intense reactions it received.
In an interview with Good Morning America, Sean Hunter expressed his dismay at how things escalated into a negative and unpleasant situation. He noticed that once something goes viral, people tend to latch onto the negativity and create their own interpretations and discussions around it. The situation took a dark turn, and the actor, who is also a teacher, found himself caught in the storm of public scrutiny.
Whether you embrace it or not, the Peloton Girl has undoubtedly secured her place in the realm of memes, standing alongside iconic figures like Baby Yoda, the Woman Yelling at a Cat, and the “I’m Gonna Tell My Kids” viral sensations. Now, let’s delve into the delightful world of Twitter, where creativity and humor never seem to disappoint.
Did you see the viral parody of Peloton Girl?
Undeniably, imitation is often regarded as the sincerest form of flattery, isn’t it? Beyond just late-night TV, numerous individuals are joining in on the parody frenzy, crafting their own versions of the ad’s narrative. Among them, comedian and writer Eva Victor stands out, having achieved viral fame with her 55-second video that humorously spoofs the original commercial.
Some called out the ad’s privilege
Admittedly, it may be hard to accept, but Peloton’s marketing strategy unmistakably caters to an audience that revels in a life of luxury. It’s targeted towards the affluent individuals who can effortlessly place their high-end stationary bikes in carefully curated corners of their multimillion-dollar abodes, spaces worthy of gracing the pages of Architectural Digest. The evidence of this meme-worthy marketing approach is undeniable.
Others dogpiled criticism on the misogynistic tone
As the memes continue to circulate, one prevailing message becomes clear: “Keep biking, don’t stop biking, must save my marriage.” These humorous posts all showcase Ruiz, the actress, with captions that playfully poke fun at her character’s fictional marital predicament.
And yet many individuals were just creeped out
Could this be an episode of Black Mirror? Perhaps a deleted scene from Get Out? Or, perhaps, something even darker? Twitter has certainly been abuzz with its own interpretations and opinions on the matter.
But who got the last laugh? It’s Ryan Reynolds and his Aviation Gin Brand
Having survived the negative experience, the Peloton girl finds an unexpected ally in none other than Deadpool himself. Actor Ryan Reynolds, portraying the iconic superhero, brings the desperate housewife from the Peloton ad into a new commercial for his Aviation Gin brand. In this new commercial, the actress, who has remained unidentified and seemingly in the actress protection program, is seen at a bar, possibly post-workout, being comforted by understanding girlfriends.
The Deadpool star’s commercial seamlessly picks up where Peloton’s ad left off. The camera focuses on Peloton Girl’s dazed expression as she sits between her two friends, still processing the implications of her husband’s gift. Taking a sip of gin, she remarks, “This gin is really smooth.” Her friends nod in understanding, offering to get her another drink, assuring her that she is safe with them. In response, she raises her glass and toasts, “To new beginnings,” downing the cocktail. One of her girlfriends playfully quips, “This is going to be a fun night.” Witness the unfolding drama in the video above.
Recognizing an opportunity, Reynolds wasted no time in reaching out to the actress, offering her a role in a commercial for his company, Aviation Gin. In this witty bit, Ruiz portrays a dazed version of her Peloton Girl persona, as if in recovery from the trauma brought on by the demands of her exercise routine.
Reynolds enthusiastically shared the ad on Twitter, cleverly tagging it with the phrase, “Exercise bike not included.”
The idea for the Aviation ad took shape when Reynolds and his creative partner discussed the Peloton commercial and its backlash. They decided to approach the situation with a sense of humor, contemplating whether they could send Ruiz a year’s supply of gin. From that initial thought, the concept evolved into the creation of the Aviation Gin ad.
With a deliberate approach, Reynolds ensured that the Aviation ad did not contribute to the divide or vilify anyone. Instead, they aimed to comment on the situation, focusing on the actress, the original ad, and the cultural landscape all at once. For Reynolds, it was a clear-cut decision to seize this grand opportunity to create something unique.
As for the future of Peloton Girl, Ruiz hopes that people will see her as an actress and not just be identified solely with the Peloton ad. She aspires to continue her career in movies and TV, eager to explore other roles and demonstrate her versatility beyond the viral commercial.
Is Peloton girl ok? Is she still alive?
The internet community has been greatly concerned about the actress featured in the Peloton commercial. In this advertisement, a gift of a stationary bicycle appears to heighten the anxiety levels of a woman trying to please her controlling husband. Nevertheless, there’s no need to worry anymore. Monica Ruiz has addressed the situation through her agency, LA Talent.
In her statement, she expresses her contentment with accepting the job opportunity from Peloton earlier in the year. She mentions that the team she worked with was delightful. Despite being an actress, Monica admits feeling uneasy about being in the spotlight and admits to struggling with social media. Consequently, the overwhelming attention she received this week, especially the negative aspects, caught her off guard.
However, things took a humorous turn when Ryan and his production team contacted her about Aviation Gin. She appreciates their ability to find some humor in the situation. Monica expresses her gratitude to both Peloton and Aviation Gin for providing her with work opportunities and allowing her to do what she loves.
Read also:
- Weight Loss Motivation: 17 Tips & Success Stories to Inspire You
- Peloton Hubby Gets His Real Girlfriend A Peloton Bike!
- ‘Husband’ in controversial Peloton ad speaks out
- Peloton loses $1.5bn in value over ‘dystopian, sexist’ exercise bike ad
- “Straight to The Core”: New Peloton program with Rebecca Kennedy
- “The Stronger You”: New Peloton strength training program with Ben Alldis
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