Brooke Shields Recalls Her 1980 Barbara Walters Interview, Claiming “It’s Almost Illegal”

Brooke Shields and the Iconic Calvin Klein Campaign: Challenging Norms and Staying Relevant

The early 1980s marked a significant moment in the fashion industry when a Calvin Klein ad featuring a young Brooke Shields caused quite a stir. The famous tagline, “Nothing stands between my Calvins and me,” delivered by Shields, became an iconic representation of youth and beauty.

Brooke Shields had already established herself as one of the most well-known actors and models in history. However, it was the controversial Calvin Klein ad that propelled her into the spotlight in an unexpected way.

The ad portrayed Brooke as a symbol of bravery, a young woman unafraid to challenge the conventional rules and expectations of women’s fashion. Yet, it was this very provocative portrayal that ignited a fiery debate. The commercial was so suggestive that it was banned in some countries, and Brooke’s single line in the advertisement was deemed sexually provocative.

This encounter haunted her for years, particularly when she was interviewed by Barbara Walters, an experience Brooke now considers “practically criminal.” In the interview, Walters asked inappropriate questions about her age, size, and whether she had kept secrets from her mother. Brooke was understandably upset, believing that such questions went beyond the realm of journalism and should be punishable.

This experience, along with her modeling work with Calvin Klein, has driven Brooke to shed light on how the media frequently oversexualizes young actors and models. Despite the passage of time, she remains passionate about addressing these issues and ensuring a better future for generations to come.

In October 2021, when Brooke’s candidacy became public, she found herself in an unexpected whirlwind of criticism and judgment upon her return to the country. Paparazzi pursued her and her mother, expressing shock and disbelief. Brooke had not intended to be provocative when she wrote the statement that caused the uproar, as she was too young at the time to understand its sexual connotations. She was unaware of any hidden meaning associated with the word ‘virgin.’

Despite the initial controversy and the critical comments directed at the mother-daughter team, their hard work paid off. The Calvin Klein lingerie line they promoted became even more popular than Calvin Klein pants. The company’s willingness to push the limits effectively pushed boundaries and, rather than deterring customers, increased interest in their brand.

Calvin Klein, as a brand, is renowned for its daring and provocative advertising campaigns. They refuse to shy away from potential controversy, and this bold attitude has contributed to their celebrity and reputation.

Over the years, they have faced criticism and censure for their advertising campaigns, especially those featuring Brooke Shields, which often tiptoed the line between being seductive and inappropriate. Nevertheless, their boldness and willingness to push boundaries have been crucial in keeping them relevant in the fashion industry.

Calvin Klein’s readiness to embrace controversy has allowed them to stand out and capture the attention of consumers. In a world where trends come and go, their enduring legacy is a testament to their ability to challenge norms and spark meaningful conversations.