Jamie Oliver's butcher ads may get the axe

The Telegraph reports that Jamie Oliver's campaign for his new series "Jamie's Great Italian Escape" faces a ban by advertising watchdogs after allegations that it "condones threatening behaviour". The ad was created by 4Creative, Channel 4's inhouse ad agency.

Last night, both the Advertising Standards Authority and Ofcom, the communications regulator, confirmed that they were investigating complaints. A spokesman for the ASA said: "We have received a number of complaints from people who feel the advert is offensive, disturbing and condoning threatening behaviour."

Channel Four said it was not aware of any complaints. "We have not received any communication regarding the marketing campaign," said a spokesman. "If and when we hear from the ASA regarding the campaign, we will respond accordingly."

Here's the "offending" ad:

Jim Fiscus, photographer
Tom Tagholm, art director
Channel 4 Creative, client