Fashion retailer Quince has faced backlash for casting Jewish actor David Schwimmer in its advert, with social media users call for boycotts of the company, saying they “don’t approve” of it “featuring a Zio”.
The advert, which came out on November 9, is a nod to the classic Friends episode The One With The Red Sweater in which Schwimmer’s character, Ross Geller, is caught out as the father of his on-off girlfriend Rachel Green’s (Jennifer Aniston’s) unborn child because he returns to her flat to collect the jumper.
The Quince advert sees Schwimmer chasing people wearing a similar item as he shouts: “That’s my dream sweater.”
However, a number of pro-Palestine social media users have condemned Quince and its nostalgic advert because Schwimmer has a history of supporting Israel.
One wrote that they “don't want a Zionist in ads,” while another added: “Welcome to the boycott list.”
“This is a very unfortunate post,” said a third. “I'm very happy you have a 365-day return policy because I do not want to support your company anymore.”
Other comments included one saying: “I’ve spent thousands shopping with you guys over the last three-four years. I don’t approve of you featuring a Zio in your ad. Please do better.”
Elsewhere, one user described the colour of the sweater as “red as in the blood of all the murdered Palestinians by the IDF”.
Schwimmer has been vocal about his support for the Jewish state for many years.
He has publicly condemned Hamas’ October 7 attack and said that anyone who tries to justify it is antisemitic.
David Schwimmer in 'Friends' episode 'The One With The Read Sweater' (YouTube/Cine Hub)[Missing Credit]
He has also spoken out against antisemitism at several events held by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL).
Dakota Isaacs, head of brand strategy and narrative at Quince told The Forward: “We’ve seen more than eight million views across our social channels in the first 48 hours, alongside international press coverage and recognition from the marketing community for the creative.
“It’s been especially rewarding to see fans connect with the humour and nostalgia while discovering Quince.”
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