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Dr. Martens Apologizes for Leaked Rocker Ads

Ads for Dr. Martens footwear that surfaced yesterday (May 23) on the web, illustrating mock-ups of deceased rockers atop heavenly clouds, draped in toga-esque garb, yet still sporting their black leather Docs, were not intended for public consumption, according to a spokesperson for the shoe maker. The ads, which depicted Kurt Cobain, Joe Strummer, Sid Vicious, and Joey Ramone, were reportedly created by mega-agency Saatchi & Saatchi. Upon their emergence, defensive fans immediately called foul, either on account of copyright infringement or another Courtney Love cash in.

A statement released by the shoe manufacturer’s CEO said the ads were simply “creative” and that “Dr. Martens did not commission the work,” which somehow leaked outside the boardroom. In the aftermath, Dr. Martens has “terminated its relationship with the responsible [advertising] agency” and issued an apologetic statement: “Dr. Martens is very sorry for any offense that has been caused by the publication of images showing dead rock icons wearing Dr. Martens boots.”

Today, People.com reported that a Love had “no idea this was taking place and would never have approved such a use” of her former husband’s image,” according to her spokesperson. “She thinks it’s outrageous that a company is allowed to commercially gain from such a despicable use of her husband’s picture.”

Love’s spokesperson also said that while the ads might be legal under British copyright laws, her client “did not, and would not approve of such a use of Kurt’s name and likeness.”

View the ads:
Kurt Cobain
Sid Vicious
Joe Strummer
Joey Ramone

On the Web:
drmartens.com

Talk: Apology accepted?