How Did Johnson and Johnson Change Who They Marketed To?

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Johnson and Johnson has been accused of targeting its marketing to black women for decades. The company had considered signing Patty Labelle or Aretha Franklin as a spokeswoman despite the evidence that its products might contribute to cancer. Traces of asbestos have been found in talc makeup products that are marketed to kids and teens.

Thousands of people say Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder gave them cancer. They’re suing — but the consumer giant is using a bankruptcy strategy called the “Texas two-step” to limit its liability.

This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Paul Robert Mounsey, and hosted by Noel King.

Transcript at vox.com/todayexplained

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