This archive report was first published on 4 December 2019.
December 2019 saw a backlash against Peloton, a high-end exercise equipment manufacturer, following the release of its holiday commercial. The 30-second ad, which featured a woman receiving a Peloton stationary bike as a gift, sparked widespread ridicule and outrage online.
The commercial, which first appeared about a month prior, was quickly spoofed by comedians and became a meme on social media. Peloton's stock price took a hit, falling by approximately 9 percent on the day after the online backlash reached its peak.
Despite speculation about the stock price drop and rumors that the ad might be removed from circulation, Peloton maintained that it stood firmly behind the commercial. However, reaction to the ad on social media was overwhelmingly negative, with many users criticizing it for being sexist and classist.
Several publications criticized the commercial, which follows the story of
