Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 released back in November 2026, and whether you enjoyed it or not, it has consistently performed well on PlayStation and Xbox, according to Circana, which tracks playtime across platforms
The game has faced controversy both before and after launch, especially around its use of generative AI for in-game assets. However, that is not the focus here.
Why the ASA ruled the advert was irresponsible
Despite the game’s adult age rating, the ASA ruled that one of the “Replacer” adverts, titled Airport Security, depicted inappropriate themes. The campaign features comedian Nikki Glaser alongside Peter Stormare, who reprises his role as The Replacer across these promotions.
Nine viewers complained to the regulator, arguing that the advert trivialized sexual violence. While the authority acknowledged that no explicit imagery was shown, it took issue with the implication that a passenger required a deeper airport security search.
In the trailer, a man was told to remove his clothing while Glasser’s character put on a glove, suggesting an invasive internal search. The regulator concluded the scene portrayed a non-consensual and invasive procedure.
In its ruling, the ASA stated the humor was “generated by the humiliation and implied threat of painful, non-consensual penetration of the man.”
Although the man remained clothed throughout, the authority determined the overall tone trivialized sexual violence. It ruled the advert was “irresponsible and offensive.”
As a result, the advert “must not appear again in its current form.”
Activision’s response and broadcast context
Activision Blizzard UK Ltd defended the advert, arguing that it depicted a deliberately exaggerated scene and made the scenario a parody. It said the airport setting had no resemblance to real airport security procedures.
The company maintained that the humor referred to discomfort. It also argued that the advert did not sexualize the act of performing a search.
Before airing, the advertisement was reviewed and approved by Clearcast, which provides pre-clearance for television advertising. It was given an “ex-kids” timing restriction, meaning it was not broadcast during or near children’s programming.
The spot ran in November 2025 on YouTube and video platforms, as well as including television channels ITV and Channel 5.
According to the BBC, this is not the first time a Call of Duty advert has faced action. In 2012, an advert for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 received a daytime ban for depicting characters firing at a truck.
Two additional complaints were also raised about Black Ops 7, relating to alleged drug use. However, the ASA did not uphold that complaint.
You can still view the advert on YouTube if you so wish.
Over to you
Do you agree with the ASA’s decision to block the advert, or do you think it was clearly intended as parody for an adult audience? Let us know in the comments and make sure to take part in our poll below:
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