Matthew McConaughey revisits arrest in Pantalones ad
By Rupert HohwielerPantalones Tequila’s latest ad leans into one of co-founder Matthew McConaughey’s most talked-about moments: his 1999 arrest for playing the bongos naked.

McConaughey is known for his playful methods to promote his Tequila brand, often without pants.
The latest campaign recalls an incident from 26 years ago, when the Oscar-winning actor was arrested while playing the bongos naked in his house.
In a clip, McConaughey is seen playing the bongo drums (with clothes on this time) as his wife and Pantalones co-founder Camila McConaughey recites the police report to him – while sipping from a glass of Pantalones reposado.
McConaughey says the incident has happened “about 46 times since” – though it was the first and last time the actor has been arrested.
The advert concludes with: “Pantalones Organic Tequila, please bongo responsibly”.
The advert is part of Pantalones’ play to be ‘the Official Tequila of Marching to Your Own Beat’. The brand has previously claimed to be the ‘official’ Tequila of the pants drop, of mowing your lawn, and the walk of no shame, among other situations.
The campaign also features a signature cocktail, the Pantsless & Famous.
A twist on the Naked & Famous, the cocktail is made with 20ml of Pantalones blanco, 20ml Aperol, 20ml yellow Chartreuse and 20ml fresh lime juice, garnished with a lime wedge.
The McConaugheys founded Pantalones in October 2023. The brand has since launched nationwide in the US, as well as reaching Australia and the UK.
Watch the McConaugheys revisit the bongos incident below:
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