Dunkin’ is facing significant backlash over a new advertisement featuring The Summer I Turned Pretty actor Gavin Casalegno that has sparked controversy for its focus on “genetics.” The commercial, promoting the chain’s Golden Hour Refresher drinks, shows Casalegno by a pool discussing his natural tan and physical attributes in ways that critics say promote problematic messaging about race and appearance.
According to Page Six, in the advertisement, Casalegno sits poolside before standing up and addressing viewers about his bronzed appearance. The actor, who keeps his white shirt unbuttoned throughout the commercial to display his tanned skin, tells the camera that his tan is natural and attributes it to his genetic makeup. He explains that he recently received his color analysis results, which confirmed he is a “golden summer, literally.”
