Universal Pictures, which is about to release American Pie 2, the sequel to its teenage sexual initiation film, American Pie, has backed out of its advertising agreement with promotional partner
LifeStyles Condoms. LifeStyles Condoms said it had committed to substantial television advertising as part of the promotional deal. Universal Pictures courted LifeStyles Condoms as a promotional
partner for American Pie 2, and also created the television ad for LifeStyles; but when it came time for studio execs to approve the ad, they backed out of the agreement, saying they didn't want to be
associated with a condom company on broadcast TV.
In a letter sent to LifeStyles Condoms, Universal Pictures said, "LifeStyles Condoms is relieved of their commitment to provide television media ...
due to the potential [sic] spot not clearing the ratings board." The ad was completed, but LifeStyles never had the opportunity to offer it to any TV stations for review. Further, Universal bore no
responsibility for the ultimate acceptance or placement of the ad.
- Adam Bernard
