Victoria’s Secret show 2014: Journalist told not to ask question about feminism

'Can we maybe not ask that question'

Dutch Angel Romee Strijd (Getty Images )

A PR for the controversial Victoria's Secret show made it very clear that one topic was not up for discussion on Tuesday night’s show – feminism.

A journalist for The Independent was forbidden from posing questions about feminism backstage ahead of the much anticipated London's Earls Court show on Tuesday.

Questions such as “do you have a favourite outfit from the show?” and “how does it feel to be a Victoria’s Secret (VS) model?” were answered by models without any interjections.

But the questions "some critics would say that the show objectifies women – what would you say to that?" and "are you a feminist?", posed to Dutch Angel Romee Strijd, saw a PR representative swiftly step in and tell our journalist “can we maybe not ask that question”.

The annual extravaganza has been widely criticised for parading women in their underwear and promoting an idealistic view of what a woman’s body should look like.

The models have spoken openly about the strict diets and gruelling training they undergo in the days running up to the show.

Even contracted Angels are required to audition every year to participate in the show by walking in lingerie under harsh lighting in front of a casting panel.

However, many have staunchly defended the show and its 47 models as a celebration of strong, powerful women. The VS organisers also insist that models are cast based on their appeal to women – not men.

This year’s event, the biggest in its 19-year run, was split into six sections, which included sections entitled ‘Dream Girl’ and ‘University of Pink’.

The 2014 show followed controversy surrounded by the Victoria’s Secret ‘perfect body’ underwear campaign, which came under fire from campaigners for “irresponsible marketing”.

A change.org petition signed by 26,000 people and the huge backlash eventually saw the brand rename their campaign slogan to ‘a body for everybody’.

A spokesperson for the brand declined to comment.