This after the network decided to remove an offensive advert on a billboard, following the forum’s complaint that the message of the advert was derogatory towards the elderly.
The giant billboard was displayed on the N1 highway near the Grayston off-ramp in Sandton, with a picture of an old man reading: “We aren’t old farts… nah, not even our presenters.”
The forum’s spokesperson, Roedolf Kay said they welcomed the decision to remove the advert, but they would have liked an apology from the network. “However, we don’t foresee getting it,” he said.
Kay said the decision sent a clear message that any type of discrimination against the elderly would not be tolerated.
Kay emphasised that the forum had not ruled out steps to take legal action, and confirmed that a complaint was laid with the SA human Rights Commission.
“The commission is still looking at how to proceed with the matter,” he said.
ANN7 said the billboard was part of an advertising campaign centred on wordplay, and that there had been no intention to harm or offend anyone.
The rental agreement for the billboard was cancelled and the advertisement would be replaced by artwork.
The Advertising Standards Authority said the forum requested the removal of the advert and recommended that ANN7 either be reprimanded or fined.
