The French are Not Happy With Johnny Depp Dior Ad, Vandalize it With ‘R*pist’
Johnny Depp recently made headlines by signing a lucrative deal with luxury brand Dior to be the face of their men’s fragrance Sauvage. However, Dior’s move to continue using Depp as a brand ambassador is now facing backlash in France. The Oscar-nominated actor’s reputation has taken a hit ever since his high-profile defamation trial against ex-wife Amber Heard earlier this year. Depp prevailed in the verdict, but disturbing details about his past behavior emerged during the proceedings. Recently, a Dior ad featuring Depp in Paris was vandalized with words like “r*pist” and “shame.”
Is The Backlash Against Johnny Depp Justified?
While Johnny Depp was not found guilty of domestic abuse accusations, according to Koimoi many believe Heard’s allegations had some merit. There is a sense that Dior is tone-deaf for sticking with a controversial figure and should reconsider their partnership. Critics argue that a brand like Dior, which relies heavily on women consumers, should be more socially conscious with its endorsements.
However, others contend Depp still enjoys enormous popularity and has many staunch supporters. Despite the shocking allegations from his trial, Depp maintained a large fanbase that rallied behind him. From a business standpoint, keeping Depp as the face of Sauvage makes sense given his continued box office appeal. For Dior, it likely comes down to dollars and cents rather than a moral judgment on Depp’s character.
What Do French Activists Have Against Johnny Depp?
In France specifically, activists have been vocal about their disapproval of Depp and desire to see Dior sever ties. France was one of the few places where public sentiment seemed firmly on Heard’s side during the trial. French newspaper Le Monde published an Op-Ed accusing Depp of abuse days before the U.S. verdict, which Depp’s team claimed was prejudicial.
French women’s groups called out Dior for standing by Depp in a show of “solidarity with abused women.” The vandalized Paris ad with “r*pist” scrawled across Depp’s face seems to be further proof that France will not let Dior forget about the controversial affiliation. For French activists seeking accountability in cases of alleged domestic violence, Depp has become a prime target.
Also Read: Johnny Depp’s Pirates of the Caribbean Was Almost Scrapped Because of 1 Flop Disney Movie
Should Celebrities With Scandals Be Dropped From Brands?
At the heart of the matter is the ongoing debate around cancel culture and who deserves to be “canceled.” The line between an accused person’s personal life and professional career is more blurred than ever in the age of social media outrage and calls to “de-platform” controversial figures.
For companies like Dior, responding to scandals poses a complex challenge. Is it their responsibility to pass moral judgment and take decisive action? Or should brands remain neutral and avoid reactionary steps that could backfire? While keeping Depp may anger some consumers, companies also risk alienating loyal fans by abruptly dropping relationships over unproven allegations.
As the pushback in France demonstrates, Dior’s decision to feature Depp despite the controversies comes with significant reputation risks. However, the fashion house seems willing to weather the storm and gamble that Depp’s box office mystique will continue to sell bottles of cologne. But the defaced Paris ad proves Dior will have to contend with ongoing protests, especially in a country where Depp has become persona non grata in the eyes of activists.
