Flipping channels last weekend I came across one of the newest and most popular reality TV shows - The Girls Next Door - about the lives of Hugh Heffner’s three live-in girlfriends - Holly Madison (25), Bridget Marquardt (31) and Kendra Wilkinson (21).  The episode happened to be filmed the day of a Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum print ad photo shoot.  Although all three of Heff’s lady friends were to be included in the shoot, ultimately, only two could participate when it was revealed that the Diageo marketing code required all models and actors involved in our advertising to be at least 25 years of age. 

Much to her chagrin, Kendra, the tomboy of the group, is only 21 and would not be allowed to participate in the shoot.  Although she voiced her disappointment and frustration several times - the crew stuck to their guns and stuck by the Diageo marketing code.

As a Diageo employee I hear a lot about our marketing code and how it is the toughest in the industry. By happenstance, I was able to see the policy at work and so did hundreds of thousands of other consumers watching that show. Though it may seem a minor thing to some, it made me proud that our company goes to such lengths to ensure that their marketing practices are above reproach. Though Miss Wilkinson participated in another modeling opportunity later in the episode, the message of the Captain’s commitment to responsibility came through loud and clear. Be responsible. Captain’s Orders!