The 1989 Pepsi commercial featuring Madonna, part of a $5 million endorsement deal, was canceled after one broadcast due to religious group protests over burning crosses and a saint’s seduction, reaching 250 million viewers.
Pepsi has allowed a commercial celebrating the company’s 125th anniversary to air, featuring Madonna’s song “Like a Prayer,” which was nominated for Video of the Year at the 1989 MTV VMAs and won Viewer’s Choice.
Madonna canceled a commercial for Pepsi after refusing to change scenes from her song “Like A Prayer.” The commercial features Madonna singing and dancing in the street, with a can of Pepsi in her hand. The ad was canceled due to Madonna’s refusal to compromise her artistic integrity. The commercial celebrates the 40th anniversary of her 1983 debut album, which was certified quadruple platinum.