Bumble's 'celibacy' ad and how its rebrand went wrong
Caroline Gill of IMA mused that the idea might have stemmed from universal dating fatigue, suggesting, "I think every woman who has endured online dating has, at some point, said, 'Fuck it, I’m joining a convent.'"
But, the ad fell from grace, missing the mark at a critical time when discussions about women's safety are paramount. Audrey Dahmen... See more
But, the ad fell from grace, missing the mark at a critical time when discussions about women's safety are paramount. Audrey Dahmen... See more
Paul Venuto • feed updates
People on TikTok took issue with the messaging, labeling it "tone-deaf" and offensive — particularly to those who had chosen a celibate lifestyle as a result of trauma.
Bumble's billboard ads made fun of celibacy as an alternative to dating. It didn't go down well.
When it comes to the business of dating apps, the most relevant principle isn’t necessarily patriarchal, but inherently capitalist: celibate, app-less women are not lucrative, an issue that the entire industry is grappling with.