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Hallmark says it will "reinstate" TV ads featuring same-sex couple after outcry

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BY JORDAN FREIMAN

The Hallmark Channel on Sunday moved to reinstate ads featuring a same-sex couple that had been removed from the cable network. The decision came after considerable backlash over the initial decision to stop airing the ads from the wedding-planning company Zola.

"The Crown Media team has been agonizing over this decision as we've seen the hurt it has unintentionally caused," Hallmark CEO Mike Perry said in a statement Sunday night. "Said simply, they believe this was the wrong decision."

"Hallmark will be working with GLAAD [Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation] to better represent the LGBTQ community across our portfolio of brands," the statement continued. "The Hallmark Channel will be reaching out to Zola to reestablish our partnership and reinstate the commercials."

Perry also used the statement to apologize, saying, "Our mission is rooted in helping all people connect, celebrate traditions, and be inspired to capture meaningful moments in their lives. Anything that detracts from this purpose is not who we are. We are truly sorry for the hurt and disappointment this has caused." Read more via CBS

Following controversy regarding gay wedding ads, SNL spoofs Hallmark’s holiday movies .

“The true reason for Christmas is husband,” said Aidy Bryant as host of a mock dating show. “I’m Emily Kringle for Hallmark, reminding you to stay straight out there.”