The Onion Imitates Thank You for Smoking

Katherine Mangu-Ward | December 8, 2006

This week's Onion "reports" on a new youth smoking campaign: "Philip Morris: 'Please Talk To Your Cooler Children About Cigarettes'"

NEW YORK—Philip Morris, the largest manufacturer of tobacco products in the United States, released the first in a series of television commercials yesterday urging parents to take the time to educate their hipper, better looking, and more rebellious children about the dangers of smoking. "If your child is idolized by other kids, always gets the girls, and has no patience or respect for authority figures, please talk to him immediately about cigarettes," said the ad's narrator over a montage of Hollywood stars apparently smoking after intercourse. "Parents need to keep an eye on their charismatic and persuasive children, who are at the highest risk of smoking at an earlier age, when it's most respected by their peers." According to Philip Morris' new print-ad campaign running in Maxim and Sports Illustrated, it is unnecessary for parents to discuss the dangers of cigarettes with lame children who like board games, science, and their parents.

No word on whether the Onion has secretly hired Christopher Buckley and/or Jason Reitman.