While the CW has yet to turn Gossip Girl into a massive ratings hit, they’re certainly good at creating buzz for the show. The series returns to finish off its first season on Monday, April 21 at 8pm, with the first of five new episodes. Considering that the show has been off the air for months due to the writers’ strike, you might think that it’d have a tough time gaining attention upon its return. However, those crafty marketing execs at the CW have made sure that you’ll pay attention to the return of the series by stirring up a little controversy. The network recently launched a scandalous ad campaign that can be summed up in four little letters: OMFG.
There are two sexy new posters promoting the return of the teen soap, both of which will be seen all around the country within the coming weeks. The thing that makes these posters a bit controversial is the fact that they show couples from the series in erotic poses, along with the letters “OMFG.” For those of you who aren’t well-versed in Internet speak, OMFG stands for “oh my (expletive) God.” There are also a couple of new commercials for the series that are heavy on the sex and the OMFG angle.
It’s not hard to see why this new ad campaign would stir up controversy. Gossip Girl is a show aimed primarily at teenagers, and most parents would rather their teens not think about sex or what that “F” in OMFG stands for. There are some people out there who won’t be fond of the soft-core porn angle these ads are going for.
As a fan of the show myself, I think the campaign is fairly brilliant. It’s edgy, daring, scandalous, and even kind of hilarious. What do you think? Check out the ad featuring Serena (Blake Lively) and Nate (Chace Crawford):
Here is the one featuring Chuck (Ed Westwick) and Blair (Leighton Meester):
Is it too hot, or just hot enough? Also, it should be noted that the “F” in OMFG will only appear on posters in select locations. Ads present in more family friendly venues will feature the less offensive OMG.
– Don Williams, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
(Image courtesy of the CW)
Staff Writer, BuddyTV
