Another TV show character experienced a heart attack on Peloton’s interactive bike—this time its Mike Wagner (David Costabile) on the season 6 premiere of Showtime’s “Billions.”
Last month, Peloton saw an 11 percent stock drop immediately after an actor died after riding a Peloton on the show’s HBO Max streaming reboot.
Peloton said in a statement that although they understand why their products are sometimes featured in television shows, they did not agree for their brand and IP to be used on “Billions.”
“As referenced by the show itself, there are strong benefits of cardio-vascular exercise to help people lead long, happy lives,” a Peloton spokesperson said.
Mike Wagner survived the heart attack.
Peloton’s share price plunged more than 75 percent in 2021, and the company hasn’t fared much better so far this year. The stock is down nearly 25 percent and trading at its lowest level in nearly two years.
CNBC reported Thursday that Peloton was considering pausing production of its low-end bike for two months, but CEO John Foley categorized “rumors that we are halting all production of bikes and Treads” as false.
Peloton became a staple for many during stay-at-home restrictions. But now consumers are returning to gyms, and the company has faced some PR headaches involving everything from crises befalling fictional television characters to product recalls. There is also more competition from upstarts selling cheaper bikes.
The CNN Wire contributed to this report.
