…Researched and contributed by Solomon Thomas.
Controversial podcast host Joe Rogan stirred up more controversy on his show “The Joe Rogan Experience” on Wednesday when he cracked open a can of Bud Light amid calls to boycott the beer company.
Rogan, who discussed the backlash Anheuser-Busch received from celebrities like Kid Rock and saw its value plummet by over $5 billion since its partnership with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney, questioned why people were so outraged.
Rogan discussed the issue with comedian Sam Tallent and stated that he saw the humorous side of the situation.
He also believed that critics were being hypocritical because they value liberty and freedom.
Mulvaney, who has millions of followers on Instagram and TikTok, was featured in videos and photos drinking Bud Light to promote its March Madness competition.
She also posted photos of commemorative cans with her face on them that the company sent her.
Rogan found it ridiculous that people were outraged over a can with Mulvaney’s face on it and believed that hiring a goofy person was hilarious.
He also saw what Bud Light was doing by using “people that are popular” to help them.
Budweiser’s vice president of marketing, Alissa Heinerscheid, previously said she wanted the brand to update its “fratty” and “out-of-touch” image.
Rogan admitted that he did not agree with Kid Rock’s video, but he liked the way he thought.
Both Rogan and Tallent preferred other beers, with Tallent stating he liked Miller Lite and Rogan stating he enjoyed a heavier beer like Sam Adams.
Mulvaney said she believed critics did not understand her and that everything she put out was positive. She wanted to connect with others who might not understand her and make them feel seen.
Commentary:
Joe Rogan, who is known for his controversial statements and opinions, has once again sparked a debate with his recent comments about the Bud Light boycott.
While he found it hilarious that people were outraged over a can with Mulvaney’s face on it, others believe that this boycott highlights the larger issue of diversity and inclusion in advertising.
Budweiser’s vice president of marketing wanted to update the brand’s image to be more inclusive and attract young drinkers.
In the end, it is up to consumers to decide whether or not they want to support companies that partner with influencers and how they view the issue of diversity and inclusion in advertising.