Everybody knows I love comedian Kathy Griffin, who happens to be a NotMom, too. During the premiere of her new BRAVO talk show this week, she dished on celebs and Real Housewives as usual. There was only one taped piece, her introductory sessions with her new production staff. Each was confronted with bizarre questions and tasks like shaving her armpits. One poor dude had to imagine removing his new boss’ tampon for her.
You were warned. Bizarre.
The skit got me to thinking that it wasn’t that long ago that I thought the “Have a happy period” campaign by Always sanitary pads pushed TV’s limits. Tampax Pearl promotes itself as a surefire way to outsmart Mother Nature and keep trucking straight through That Time of the Month.
Of course, the terms “va-jay-jay” and “vagina” are so casually (and inaccurately) used on the most unassuming broadcasts these days that it seems strangely logical to talk more openly about basic body functions.
The problem is that ad agencies create 30-second spots as though only women of menstruating age will watch them, all alone. To be in the room with a young child when a ‘plain-speaking’ commercial airs is an obvious challenge I wouldn’t wish on anybody. The uncomfortable moments we don’t talk about happen when it’s an adult, not a kid, who makes you grab for the remote to change the channel. The guy I’m talking about has a sense of humor only slightly above giggling at the sight of underpants.
You don’t know anyone like him? He exists. Sad to say, he might even work for the Secret Service.
Personally, I’d be happier if there were as many condom commercials across the channels as there are happy periods.
I believe Debbie Schinker stated it best when she mentioned acting proactively and addressing the issues when and where SHE chose. Commercials might, however, open the door to the conversation.