Vince Vaughn’s latest comedy, Couples Retreat, stars four couples in a tropical paradise facing marital issues. Although the U.S. promotional poster used all four couples, marketers removed Faizon Love and Kali Hawk – the only black actors – from the poster used in the United Kingdom. Naturally, the move sparked major controversy and aroused suspicion.

A Universal spokesperson said that the new poster was intended “to simplify the poster to actors who are most [recognizable] in international markets.” Though Love and Hawk may not be as well known as the other six stars, their motive is questionable. It’s a known fact that American films with black stars can struggle in the overseas market. According to a New York Times article from 2007, even Will Smith ranks no better than twelfth when it comes to international ticket sales. Unfortunately, as industry watcher James Ulmer said, “The international marketplace is still fairly racist.”

Most recently, Universal released a statement apologizing for any harm the U.K. poster may have caused. They have also canceled all plans to use the altered poster in other overseas markets. While the damage is done, at least it was done so publicly. Universal may think twice before going down such an overtly bigoted route in the future