Guinness and Gareth Thomas have teamed up for a moving and inspirational video / commercial series. The overall Guinness campaign is titled "Made for More", but with Thomas's video there's another theme, "Guinness Rugby – Never Alone." Both of these work for the point the retired Welsh rugby star is trying to get across. Have a look.
Gareth Thomas came out in December of 2009, was voted the most influential gay person in the UK in 2010 and retired from rugby in October 2011, but he continues to be a great social figure.
Gareth Thomas: Never Alone tells the story of how the former Wales captain’s greatest fear wasn’t the opposition he faced on the pitch, but the fear of rejection from everything he had known, because of his sexuality. The film celebrates the courage of Gareth, and most importantly, the empathy shown by his teammates when he came out, showing that even when he felt he was on his own and at his lowest point, he was always part of a team. – youtube
Here is more of Gareth Thomas's personal battle. Watching this definitely watered my contacts.
Thank you Guinness and Gareth Thomas for sharing this inspirational story. You may be done playing professionally, Gareth, but you continue to be a bright light for us all.
I am disappointed with this
I am disappointed with this ad – Was Guinness the reason Gareth spoke out? Was Guinness responsible for his honesty, his bravery, his courage? I admire what Gareth has done, and it is hugely influential, but associating this with Guinness is wrong.
He’s being recognized for his
He’s being recognized for his courage BY Guinness. The same way many others are recognized by organizations for any number of positive contributions. Jezuz Kerist be happy for the man and the millions who will see him as a positive role model for equality and openness. Kudos to his teammates for their courage too.
I admire what Gareth did,
I admire what Gareth did, which is clear from my comment.
My point is did he need Guinness to be honest to himself,his team mates and the general public? Guinness associating their brand with the ad suggests that. Do other LGBTQ people, young and old, need Guinness as a source of courage. No.
Great player, great man and
Great player, great man and great ad!
What a marvlous story by a
What a marvlous story by a great player, alot of courage and guts!
Day-um…he’s hot and he’s
Day-um…he's hot and he's arole model.