Diddy Accused of Discrimination for Ciroc Castings
Hip-Hop renaissance man Sean "Diddy" Combs will be shooting a new television commercial for Ciroc Vodka and only African American women with a light/fair complexion need apply, according to the casting information sent out to by Imperative Management.
The casting call, which is also open to white and Hispanic women, goes on to specify both height and size requirements, stating that only those who meet their criteria will be contacted. The management company's requirements are sparking controversy, as bloggers cry discrimination.
In 2007, Diddy announced his partnership with Diageo, the spirits company that owns Ciroc Vodka. Under the terms of their agreement, Diddy and his company Sean Combs Enterprises handles all brand management decisions for the vodka. As such, Diddy has appeared in several Ciroc ad campaigns, and also receives 50 percent of the company's profits.
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Since collaborating with Ciroc, the 39-year-old has made the brand a household name. Earlier this year the company made headlines by offering New Year's Eve partygoers free cab rides in New York City's Times Square. Other notable marketing tactics also include a commercial in which Diddy used Frank Sinatra's music to bring a "sophisticated celebration" of the alcoholic beverage. The commercial does however feature African American woman of different complexions.
The mogul has yet to comment on the recent casting stipulations.
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