UK Advertising Regulator Bans Call of Duty Ad for Minimizing Sexual Violence

The UK’s advertising authority has prohibited a promotional video for the Call of Duty franchise, citing its trivialization of sexual violence.

This specific advertisement for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 showcased fictional security personnel at an airport, implying that actual officers were preoccupied with playing the game.

Viewers expressed their discontent over the clip, where a man was instructed to undress as an officer donned gloves while stating, “time for the puppet show,” deeming it both “irresponsible and offensive.”

Activision’s Defense of the Advertisement

Activision Blizzard UK Ltd defended the advertisement, asserting that it was designed for an adult audience due to the game’s 18-rating, suggesting that mature viewers could better appreciate its satirical humor.

The campaign, which aired on platforms such as YouTube, ITV, and Channel 5 in November 2025, was part of a broader effort to market the latest installment in the renowned gaming series.

It operated under the premise that substitute workers had to assume various roles, as the original staff were engaged in playing Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.

Details of the Controversial Scene

The contentious advertisement unfolded in an airport security environment, featuring an actor identifying themselves as a