TV characters turn role model for brands

It’s not just Intel that wants The Big Bang Theory’s super nerd Sheldon Cooper for endorsements. These other examples show that characters have sometimes trumped celebrity.

AUSTIN POWERS, Heineken

The beer company brought in an action-comedy hero who parodies most popular culture references and made their beer instantly cooler.



CHHOTA BHEEM, McDonald’s

For one of their recent campaigns, McD turned to the superhuman popularity of the kids’ show Chhota Bheem to lure more kids in.

SHAKTIMAAN, Parle G

India’s favourite superhero of the 90s became synonymous with the idea of power and thanks to a well timed campaign, with glucose biscuits.

SHELDON COOPER, Intel

When news broke of Cooper advertising for Intel, many called it a marketing coup. Getting on the Big Bang bandwagon could turn things around for Intel.



JAMES BOND, Omega

The watch company cashed in on Bond’s irresistible persona and Pierce Brosnan’s popularity. Brosnan has been wearing Omega as Bond since 1995.

JERRY SEINFELD AND SUPERMAN, American Express Card

There isn’t much Seinfeld hasn’t done during his time as the most successful man in television. A commercial with Superman is just another day at work for him.

STEPHEN COLBERT, Wonderful Pistachios

How does one advertise pistachios? Bring in a satirist and create a campaign for posterity.