Nike Criticized for Hiring Reality TV Star With DUI to Play an Amputee Vet in a New Ad

At first look, a brand new Nike advert portraying a army veteran, who’s an amputee, going out for a run together with his canine, who additionally occurs to be an amputee, is strictly the form of inspiring industrial you’d count on from the beloved athletic model. Nevertheless, some individuals who have seen the spot aren’t feeling Nike’s selection for the lead position, and they’re letting the model know on-line.

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Trump’s Tariffs Would possibly Stick Round. What Ought to We Purchase Now?

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MTV actuality tv star Nelson Thomas performs the veteran within the industrial. Thomas, who’s greatest often called a forged member on the competitors present “The Problem,” was concerned in a single-car crash in Austin, Texas again in March 2023. Based on Web page Six, Thomas was arrested and charged with driving whereas intoxicated after onlookers helped take away him from his burning automotive. After the crash, which left Thomas’ proper foot crushed, he underwent 10 surgical procedures and a stem cell transplant earlier than in the end deciding to have his foot amputated in 2024, in keeping with CBS Austin.

You’ll be able to try the advert, which was posted on TikTok, for your self right here:

Some who’ve seen the Nike advert do not like that Thomas, who misplaced his foot as a result of he was driving whereas intoxicated is being portrayed as a hero, even whether it is simply an performing gig.

“No hate to Nelson however that is so flawed. That is set as much as make it appear to be he misplaced it on lively obligation…not in an unlawful automotive accident,” wrote somebody on TikTok.

Others consider the half ought to have gone to somebody who really served the nation.

“Loads of precise warfare vets that may of been a very good match for this however he might use the paycheck I suppose…,” wrote one other TikTok commenter.  

However some, who’re standing up for Thomas, say they consider he has discovered his lesson and deserves some grace.

“Simply because he was consuming and driving doesn’t imply he deserves to be [treated] like he isn’t HUMAN . He made a mistake that HE HIMSELF PAID FOR yall simply love throwing stones in them glass homes 🙄,” wrote somebody on TikTok.

One other TikTok commenter argued that Nike might have prevented your complete controversy by letting individuals know that Thomas bought paid to play a veteran within the spot.

“Nike ought to’ve finished higher. They need to’ve put disclaimer noting this can be a paid actor or they might have casted an actual veteran. imo he doesn’t deserve this, he’s by no means taken accountability. Sure, he bought paid for a gig however Nike dropped the ball,” they wrote.