Demi Lovato‘s provocative crucifix poster promoting her new album in the UK has generated quite a fuss.
According to the Advertising Standards Authority, the 30-year-old singer’s advertisement was ‘likely to cause serious offence’ for associating sexuality to the cross and crucifixion (ASA).
The ad, which was displayed throughout London in August, depicted Lovato chained in a kinky attire while laying on a giant, comfortable-looking crucifix bed.
The title above the obscene photograph stated ‘DEMI LOVATO’ and ‘HOLY FVCK’, the album’s title.
Four complaints were filed against the poster, alleging that it was potentially offensive and was put in plain sight of children throughout the capital.
Polydor Records, a Universal Music division, supported Demi’s advertisement and disagreed with the authority.
The label told ASA that it had examined the six potential spots before the advertisements appeared and that each was considered acceptable, but that they would only be visible for four days.
The UK’s advertising authorities, however, stated that ‘HOLY FVCK’ obviously related to the well-known swearword, which they deemed unsuitable alongside the visuals.
They claimed the image of Lovato ‘wrapped up in a bondage-style attire while resting on a mattress shaped like a crucifix, in a position with her legs chained to one side’ was’reminiscent of Christ on the cross’.
The ASA stated that the swearing, sex, and crucifix collaboration was likely to offend Christians.
Demi’s album, which was released in August of last year, is about the singer’s battle with addiction, mental health, and her journey to recovery.
The album contains numerous theological references, and the American singer returns to her rock & roll beginnings.
‘I wanted to take my power back,’ she told Vogue last year.