(2003-06-12) — French tourism by Americans, already down due to tensions over Iraq, has plunged to historic lows in the wake of France’s new ads featuring Woody Allen.
“People are calling up to cancel previously-planned French vacations,” said one unnamed travel agent. “As soon as they hear Woody Allen talk about kissing his wife they suffer from mental images that only time can heal.”
Mr. Allen, the 67-year-old filmmaker, is married to his former girlfriend Mia Farrow’s adopted daughter, Soon-Yi, who is about 34 years younger. His 13-year relationship with Ms. Farrow ended in 1992 when she discovered naked photos of Soon-Yi in Mr. Allen’s apartment.
A French tourism official said, “We are chagrined to hear the American response to our advertising. We were told that Woody Allen is the American Jerry Lewis…you know, parents hope their kids will grow up to be like him.”

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