Fox bans Scarlett Johansson's 'Sorry Coke and Pepsi' SodaStream ad

LOS ANGELES , Calif., Jan. 28 (UPI) -- An uncensored version of Scarlett Johansson's SodaStream ad was published on the brand's YouTube page Monday.

The 32 second spot was meant to be featured in the upcoming Super Bowl, but Fox -- who's set to broadcast the game this year -- banned it because it belittles Coca-Cola and PepsiCo.

SodaStream CEO Daniel Birnbaum complained to USA TODAY about the ban claiming Fox rejected the commercial "because they're afraid of Coke and Pepsi."

The network has asked SodaStream to remove a line where Johansson sultrily utters "Sorry, Coke and Pepsi."

"Which advertiser in America doesn't mention a competitor? This is the kind of stuff that happens in China. I'm disappointed as an American," Birnbaum said.

Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have been long-time spenders on Super Bowls: Pepsi is even sponsoring this year's halftime show. While reps for Fox and PepsiCo declined to comment, Coca-Cola spokeswoman Lauren Thompson said: "I can confirm we did not pressure Fox. Other than that, we don't comment on our competitors' efforts."

The ad will still run during the game but without the controversial line.

[USA Today]