Comedian John Mulaney paid playful homage to Brooke Shields legendary Calvin Klein ad from 1980 while hosting Saturday Night Live on November 2. In a promotional image for the show, the 42-year-old Mulaney posed in dark-washed jeans and a red button-up shirt, echoing Shields’ unforgettable pose, with one heeled boot kicked up.
Shields, now 59, responded to Mulaney’s lighthearted tribute with enthusiasm, sharing her approval on social media. Posting the side-by-side images on Instagram, she captioned, “I see no difference… I guess they can be your Calvins too, @johnmulaney @nbcsnl @calvinklein.” Her response delighted fans, showing her sense of humor and her recognition of the ad’s enduring impact.
The original 1980 ad became a cultural phenomenon and stirred significant controversy at the time. Fifteen-year-old Shields posed in a partially buttoned maroon blouse and tight Calvin Klein jeans, baring her midriff in a look that pushed boundaries for a mainstream ad. But it was her daring line, “What comes between me and my Calvins? Nothing,” that sparked widespread debate, raising eyebrows over its suggestive tone.
Though the campaign was a massive success for Calvin Klein, its provocative nature led networks like CBS and ABC to ban it, deeming it too risqué for general audiences. Despite the backlash, the ad launched Shields to stardom and became a defining moment in both fashion and pop culture. Shields’ bold look and memorable line challenged conventions, ultimately helping to shape Calvin Klein’s brand identity for decades.
Mulaney’s take on the ad highlights its lasting impact and how pop culture continues to find inspiration in memorable moments of the past. His playful homage brought nostalgia to fans while proving the ad’s iconic status remains intact over 40 years later.
Shields’ warm reaction to the SNL promo shows her appreciation for the cultural legacy of the ad, and her Instagram post gave fans a reason to celebrate. Mulaney’s tribute has reminded a new generation of one of fashion’s most unforgettable campaigns, while Shields’ response confirmed her lasting influence as a pop culture icon.
