Some people say they have cancelled their Foxtel subscriptions after the company broadcast advertisements rejected by two free-to-air TV stations

Foxtel is facing a backlash from some subscribers after it decided to screen advertisements opposing same-sex marriage.

The ads, created by anti-gay marriage group Marriage Alliance, were knocked back by the Seven and Ten networks but have been screened by the pay TV provider.

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People took to Facebook to vent their anger, with many saying they would cancel their Foxtel subscription.

“Just cancelled my account – Netflix is much less homophobic, and better value,” one wrote.

“What’s new on Foxtel this week? Bigotry, hatred and lies,” said another.

Some questioned Foxtel for airing advertisements for I Am Cait, the new reality show about Caitlyn Jenner’s transition, alongside the anti-equality message in the ads.

Marriage Alliance’s campaign, which uses the line “It’s not as simple as you think”, says legislating to allow same-sex marriage may affect other people’s rights.

Foxtel said it was aware its decision to air the ad had “caused hurt and distress to some customers”.

“We believe this debate should be won by the force of the argument in favour of reform, not by refusing to engage in debate or allow contrary opinion to be put,” a spokesman said.

The company said it was a strong supporter of marriage equality and it was screening a series of celebrity-backed ads calling for marriage equality.

