The actor who starred in Peloton‘s viral advert has bought his real-life girlfriend a Peloton stationary bike for Christmas.
In the advert, released last month, actor Sean Hunter plays a man who gives his wife (played by Monica Ruiz) a Peloton on Christmas morning.
She then documents her workouts on the Peloton bike throughout the following year, recording videos to share her experiences.
Following the backlash to the advert, Peloton released a statement defending its intentions.
A representative for the company told CNBC: “While we’re disappointed in how some have misinterpreted this commercial, we are encouraged by- and grateful for – the outpouring of support we’ve received from those who understand what we were trying to communicate.”
Hunter, who balances acting and modelling alongside his role as a primary school teacher, also commented on the criticism, telling Psychology Today that he hopes the role does not have long-term impacts on his life.
“I’m grappling with the negative opinions as none of them have been constructively helpful,” Hunter said.
“It’s really hard to improve when all feedback goes against any type of growth. I currently sit here hoping that I’ll be able to continue auditioning for commercials without any taint, and that if my students happen to find the commercial and recognise me, they won’t think about me any different than they already know me.”
