During a panel interview with SXSW, popular transgender social media figure Dylan Mulvaney recently disclosed her efforts to address the fallout from the Bud Light boycott.
In response to the Bud Light commercial and boycott, Mulvaney reveals she pitched a creative idea where a cowboy and a transgender person would be depicted sharing a beer. The intention behind this concept was to use humor and inclusivity to bring people together and reduce divisions.
However, despite Dylan Mulvaney's proactive efforts, Bud Light did not acknowledge or respond to her proposal.
Why Dylan Mulvaney's Bud Light Was Boycotted
The controversy surrounding Mulvaney came from her participation in Bud Light's marketing campaign in April 2023.
Mulvaney's appearance in ads, including those commemorating "365 Days of Girlhood" during March Madness, sparked a backlash from Bud Light's conservative consumer demographic. This resulted in a boycott against Bud Light.
According to VCPost, Bud Light's parent company, Anheuser-Busch, had an estimated loss of up to $1.4 billion in sales.
Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth then issued a subdued apology. "We never intended to be part of a discussion that divides people. We are in the business of bringing people together over a beer."
Looking back, Dylan Mulvaney thinks Bud Light could have handled the criticism better if it had stood up against the bullying tactics of the conservative audience. She believes brands need to support their representatives, especially those in groups facing discrimination.
With this lesson, she has now integrated clauses into her contracts to address potential boycotts in the future. At the same time, she continues to advocate for representation and acceptance, both in media and corporate partnerships.
For now, Dylan Mulvaney has no more commitments with Bud Light and instead has hinted at upcoming projects, including the possibility of writing a romantic comedy that celebrates transgender joy.
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