List of American advertising characters

This is a list of notable nationally exposed mascots and characters created specifically for advertising purposes, listed alphabetically by the product they represent.

Characters

Product Character Years used Notes
A&W RestaurantThe Burger Family: Papa Burger, Mama Burger, Teen Burger & Baby Burger1963–1974
A&W Root Beer[1]The Great Root Beardebuted 1974 
Aflac insuranceThe Aflac duck2000presentoriginally voiced by Gilbert Gottfried, fired in 2011; now voiced by Daniel McKeague.[2]
Ajax cleanserThe Ajax pixies19481950sspeaking voices are Joe Silver, Hans Conreid and June Foray
Ajax detergentThe White Knightdebuted 1963 
Alka-SeltzerSpeedy Alka-Seltzer19521964, 2010–presentvoiced by Dick Beals
Allstate insuranceMayhem2010–presentactor Dean Winters
Ally FinancialBank Executive (aka focus group marketer)debuted 2009Candid Camera-type setting; Tricks real unsuspecting children with offers and leaves them hurt or upset after adding rules and fees. Played by RJ Kelly.
Alpha-Bits cerealLoveable Truly1964early 1970spostman (voiced by Jim Nabors)
Alpha-Bits Wizard1970s1980swizard
Alfie the Alpha-Bits Cereal Wonder Dog1980s
Alpha2000spresentcomputer who makes Alpha-Bits
Alpha Pig; Princess Presto; Super Why; Wooster; Wonder Red2012presentCGI-animated child stars of "Super Why" from PBS
Kids1970s1990s
Alphabet letters1990searly 2000sAnimated letters who are in cereal
AMC TheatresClip19912009figure made out of discarded movie film who appears in the 'coming attractions' and 'feature presentation' trailers seen at AMC movie theaters.
AMC Amazing Icons2012presenticons originally appeared in policy trailers advising audience that "it's movie time, not phone-talking time"; later appeared in the 'coming soon' and 'it's movie time!' trailers seen at AMC movie theaters as CGI-animated characters.
American Tourister luggageluggage-mauling gorilla19701980s 
Ameritrade brokerage firmStuart1999known for quotes like "Let's light this candle!" played by Michael C. Maronna
Arby's restaurantsOven Mitt20032006voiced by Tom Arnold
Ask.comJeeves19962006 
AT&TLily Adams, the AT&T Store manager2013presentinforms customers about AT&T's sharing plans, played by Milana Vayntrub
Aunt Jemima pancake mix and syrupAunt Jemima18932020 
Bacardi RumBacardi & Cola2003 
Bardahl engine additiveDirty Sludge, Sticky Valve, Gummy Ring, Blackie Carbon1953 
Bartles & Jaymes wine coolersFrank Bartles and Ed Jaymes19851991played by David Joseph Rufkahr (Bartles) and Dick Maugg (Jaymes)
Big Boy restaurantsBig Boy1937–presentknown for statues of figure outside of Big Boy restaurants, character in Adventures of the Big Boy comic book series hamburger of same name; live-action spots in the 1970s by Jonathan Winters
Dolly1956–presentBig Boy's girlfriend in Adventures of the Big Boy comic book series
Blue Bunny Ice creamBlu the bunny2017- present
BMW X5The grandmother in the back seat2015–presentirritates her entire family with exaggerated stories while the parents are driving
Bonny Maid floor cover productsthe Bonny Maid19491950played by Anne Francis
Boo Berry cerealBoo Berry1972present 
BordenElsie the cow1938present 
Boubin Auto shopBoubin Bearlate 1980spresentlarge bear wearing a hat, vest, and jeans. He holds his jeans up and tips his hat while saying "It's the bear facts, folks!" Voiced by Andy Aasgaard.
Bounty paper towelsRosie the waitress19701990played by Nancy Walker
BP Connect Gas StationsThe "A Little Better Gas Station" Crew2007presentplays to the song LA by Message of the Blues
Bubble Yum bubble gumFloyd D. Duck  
Bud Ice beerBud Ice penguin1996known for ominously singing "Doo-be-doo-be-doo..."
Bud Light beerSpuds MacKenzie19871990 
Johnny, the Bud Light guy1995known for catchphrase "I love you, ma-a-a-n!"; played by Rob Roy Fitzgerald
Budweiser beerBudweiser Frogs1990sOne frog says "Bud," another says "weis," and a third says "er."  This is often repeated throughout the company's ads, in that order.
Frank and Louie, lizards1998main adversaries to the Budweiser frogs.
Budweiser Clydesdales1930spresentusually pulling a hitch of Budweiser with a Dalmatian riding in it.  Also appear playing football against each other.
Burger Chef restaurantsBurger Chef and Jeff19541996voiced by Paul Winchell
Burger King restaurantsThe Burger King19741990, 20042011, 2016present[3] 
Sir Shake-A-Lot19761980knight who craved milk shakes
The Burger Thing19761980large hamburger puppet
The Duke of Doubt19761980arch-nemesis of the Burger King
The Wizard of Fries19761980robot powered by french fries
Burger King Kids Club Gang1990mid-2000sKid Vid, a blond Caucasian male who loved video games and technology; he was the leader of the group. Boomer, a sports loving Caucasian tomboy with red hair tied into a ponytail. I.Q., a male Caucasian nerd with ginger hair and freckles who wore red glasses, a green lab coat, and a pocket protector. Jaws, a tall African-American male with an insatiable appetite. J.D., a dog and the group's mascot. Lingo, a multi-lingual, Hispanic male who liked art and carried an easel. Snaps, a blonde Caucasian female who always carried her camera. Wheels, a Caucasian paraplegic male in a wheelchair. Jazz, an Asian girl who loved music and wore a beret. (Jazz added in 2000)
Herb1985played by John Merrick
Fighting chickens Spicy and TC2004 
Bush's baked beansDuke the Dog1993presentJay Bush's canine companion who always tries to sell his owner's secret recipe; voiced by Robert Cait
ButterfingerBart Simpson19882013
Buster Brown shoesBuster Brown and his dog Tige1904presentlive-action spots by Jerry Marin
California Raisin Advisory Boardthe California Raisinsdebuted 1987singin' dancin' California raisins
CarfaxCar Foxdebuted 2008helps people buy used cars
Camel cigarettesJoe Camel19871997 
Campbell's SoupThe Campbell's Soup kidsdebuted 1904 
Capital OneMr. No2000splayed by David Spade
Cap'n Crunch cerealCap'n Crunch1963presentcreated by Jay Ward Productions; originally voiced by Daws Butler
Carling Black Label beerMabel the waitress1950splayed by Jean Goodspeed (1951 through mid-1950s)
Carl's Jr. restaurantsThe Carl's Jr. Star1960spresenthas become Western U.S. counterpart of Hardee's
Centers for Disease Control and PreventionMaria2013presenthost of the cooking show "Recipes for Disaster," in which she uses old family recipes but does not follow food safety properly, and her husband is aware of this as he avoids eating the cooked meals; those who do later suffer food poisoning as pointed out on screen or by the announcer.
Charmin bathroom tissueMr. Whipple19651989played by Dick Wilson
The Charmin Bears2000s
CheeriosCherri O'Leary [4]1940s
The Cheerios Kid and Sue1950s, 1980s, 2012
Chef Boyardee canned pastasChef Boyardee based on company founder Hector Boiardi
Cheetos snacksChester Cheetah1986presentvoiced by Pete Stacker
Chevrolet CamaroBumblebee2007presentpart of cross-promotion with the Transformers film series; also used in a television ad and sold as a level trim in the Camaro option features
Chevrolet TahoeThe Babysitter2014teenager who demands more money after the mother takes her home in the family's new 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe and believes that they are worth more after she sees the features.
Chevron (Standard Oil of California)Hy Finndebuted 1958voiced by Paul Ford
the Chevron Cars1995present 
Chick-fil-AThe Chick-fil-A cows1995presentknown for the catchphrase "Eat Mor Chikin" (sic)
Chicken of the SeaCatalina, the Chicken of the Sea mermaid1952presentvoiced by Darla Hood in TV commercials
Chiffon MargarineMother Nature1970s1980sbest known for catchphrase "It's Not Nice To Fool Mother Nature!" Played by Dena Dietrich; Voice-over by Mason Adams
Chiquita bananasMiss Chiquita Banana1944present 
Chuck E. Cheese restaurantsChuck E. Cheese1977presentvoiced by Duncan Brannan until 2012 when he was replaced by Jaret Reddick (due to the revamp of Chuck E.) however Brannan's voice was still used for Chuck E Cheese Animatronic and music video shows (in studio C), that are shown inside the restaurants until late 2012.
Cinemark movie theatersFront Row Joe19881999, 20042011animated cat; sidekicks over the years have included Starstruck Penny (originally Popcorn Penny) and Clyde
Cinnamon Toast Crunch cerealWendell, the Cinnamon Toast Crunch chef  
Cisco SystemsThe 'citizens' of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia2010presentfictionalized version of the real town as visited by Canadian actress Ellen Page, a native Nova Scotian
Cocoa Puffs cerealSonny the Cuckoo Bird1960spresentoriginally voiced by Chuck McCann
Cocoa and Fruity Pebbles cerealThe Flintstones characters1970present
Columbia PicturesColumbia (based on a representation of Columbia, a personification of the United States)1924present 
Comet cleanserJosephine the plumber1960s1970splayed by Jane Withers
ComcastThe Slowskys1997–presentpair of turtles (living as a married couple in the suburbs) who favor DSL over High Speed internet; voiced by Andrew Donnelly and Rachael Harris; inspired Shaw Communications' The Snailskis in Canada.
Condomman.comCondom Man2003present 
Consumer CellularJack and Connie2011presentretired couple who travel across the country in a RV
Cookie Crisp cerealCookie Jarvis19771985 
Cookie Crook19811997 
Cookie Cop19851997 
Chip the Dog19912005 
Chip the Wolf2005present 
Cool Whip dessert toppingSarah Tucker1960splayed by Marge Redmond
Coors Light beerCoors Light Twinsplayed by Diane and Elaine Klimaszewski
Coppertone sun-care productsThe Coppertone Girl1944present 
Corn Flakes cerealCornelius the rooster originally voiced by Dallas McKennon, voiced in 1960s by Andy Devine 
Count Chocula cerealCount Alfred Chocula1971present 
CrackedSylvester P. Smythe
Cracker JackSailor Jack and his dog, Bingo1918present 
Crazy EddieDr Jerry1972–1989Performed by DJ Jerry Carroll
Cream of Wheat hot cerealRastus the Cook1890presentbelieved to be from a photograph of Frank L. White, a Chicago chef who reportedly was paid five dollars to pose in a chef's hat and jacket.
Crest toothpasteArthur Goodwin, pharmacist1970splayed by Arthur O'Connell
CrowsCrows Candy Mascot1910spresentCrow who has a fetish for top hats and canes
Dell computersSteven Jackson20002003known for quotes like "Dude, you got a Dell"; played by Benjamin Curtis
Diet CokeDiet Coke hunk1990splayed by Lucky Vanous
DirecTV"Alternative" Rob Lowe2014presentRob Lowe in dual roles
Hannah Davis and her talking horse2015presentmodel Hannah Davis pitching DirecTV on a beach accompanied by a talking horse who brags about himself ("The Horse's Mouth" as alluded by Davis)
"Alternative" NFL players2015presentpart of NFL Sunday Ticket campaign, with NFL players in dual roles similar to Lowe's
The Settlers2016presentpioneering family who refuses to switch from cable
Discover CardPeggy2009presentactually, "Peggy" is a bearded guy with a foreign accent (Romanian) who works at "USA Prime Credit," a sham credit company located in a unknown frozen location who preys on its customers trying to get information on their credit cards. Played by Romanian-American actor Tudor Petrut.
Dish NetworkThe Hopper family2012presentBoston-area family pronounces it "Hoppa."
DitechNed the Banker20022006played by Ron Michaelson; shouts the catch phrase "Lost another loan to Ditech!" Now the mascot for CashCall Mortgage
Domino's PizzaThe Noid1980s1990svoiced by Pons Maar
Doublemint chewing gumDoublemint Twins  
Dos EquisThe Most Interesting Man in the World2006–presentPlayed by Jonathan Goldsmith from 2006–2016; replaced by Augustin Legrand in 2016
Dreyfus investmentsMajor, the Dreyfus liondebuted 1960s 
Dunkin' DonutsFred the baker19811997known for quote "Time to make the donuts"; played by Michael Vale
Duracell batteriesThe Puttermans1990s 
Dutch Boy PaintThe Dutch boy1907present 
Electricity generationReddy Kilowatt1926presentused by up to 300 investor-owned utilities world-wide from 1926, although use declined in the 1970s and few remain. Voiced by Walter Tetley in two short films.
Elmer's ProductsElmer the Bull1940s-presentoriginally the mate for Elsie the Cow of Borden's dairy products.
Energizer batteriesJackolate-1980sknown for catchphrase "Oi!"; played by Australian footballer Mark 'Jacko' Jackson
Energizer Bunny1989present 
Esso/ExxonThe Esso tiger/the Exxon tigerdebuted 1964See ExxonMobil website  
EsuranceErin Esurance20052009animated spy
Eveready batteriesEveready "9 lives" catdebuted c. 1920s1930s 
Fanta (US only)Fantanas2002–presentfictional spokesmodels; sings musical catchphrase "Don'cha Wanna, Wanta Fanta!" Five incarnations since its debut, latter revived in 2017 as dance ensemble with one male member.
Federal ExpressMr. Spleen, fast-talking executive1982played by John Moschitta, Jr.
Florida Citrus CommissionOrange Bird1970screated by Walt Disney Productions
Flying "A" service stationsAxelrod the dog1960s 
Ford autoThe Ford dogdebuted 1952 
Franken Berry cerealFranken Berry1971present 
Frank's Red Hot SauceEthel the cook2011–presentelderly woman who uses the catchphrase "I Put That S*** on Everything!" in front of the people who taste her food after basting it with the sauce.
FreeCreditReport.comThe FCR Band
Victorious Secrets
2006–2010, 2012–present (former) 2010–present (latter)The lead singer in the FreeCreditReport (FCR) Band was played by French-Canadian actor-singer Eric Violette. Violette's singing voice was lip-synced by another singer because of Violette's thick Francophone accent. In 2010 the group Victorious Secrets won a contest to replace the faux band in a new series of ads. In 2012 the faux band returned in a new series of ads.
French Toast Crunch cerealWendell the baker1995–late 1990s
Frito-Lay snacksFrito Bandito1960svoiced by Mel Blanc
The Frito Spokesbag2012present
Fruit Stripe chewing gumYipes, the Fruit Stripe Zebra1962present 
GadgetsSammy Sands1983-1991Sammy Sands was an animatronic piano player at Gadgets, a high-scale FEC
GEICOthe Geico gecko1999presentvoiced by Kelsey Grammer, Dave Kelly, Richard Steven Horvitz, Jake Wood, and others
the GEICO Cavemen2004presentplayed by Jeff Daniel Phillips, Ben Weber, John Lehr, and Ben Wilson
Maxwell, The GEICO pig2010–present
Mike, the camel2010–presentreminds people he annoys that Wednesday is “HUMP DAY!”
The squirrels2008–presentcongratulated themselves after running a vehicle off the road
Spy mom2010–presentalways on her phone trying to talk to her son (she is unaware that he is a spy operative). She also is aware of the GEICO characters and wonders how they ended up in the commercial shoot during a contest sponsored by the insurer in 2018 (“No wonder they call it ‘Hollyweird!’”); also a continuation of the squirrels ad as she mentioned that her husband was fighting with them, alluding to the details mentioned above.
General MillsBetty Crocker1921present 
Gerber baby productsThe Gerber baby1927presentsketched by Dorothy Hope Smith, depicts four-month-old neighbor Ann Turner
Gillette Blue Blade razorsSharpie the parrot19521960 
Gold Dust Washing PowderThe Gold Dust Twins1880s–1940s 
Golden CorralThe Quisenberrys2015
Good & Plenty candyChoo-Choo Charlie19501960s 
Gorton's of Gloucester Fish productsGorton's Fisherman1964present
Granny Goose snacksGranny Goose   
Green Giant vegetablesJolly Green Giant1928presentoriginally voiced by Herschel Bernardi; has been done recently by Len Carlson
Little Green Sprout  
Greyhound LinesThe running Greyhound1937–presentalso used a live greyhound in TV promotions.
Hamburger HelperThe Helping Handdebuted 1977voiced by Patrick Coyle
Hamm's BeerHamm's Beer beardebuted 1952 
Harbor GasolineHarbie The Seal
Hardee's restaurantsThe Hardee's Stardebuted 1997
Gilbert Giddyup, Speedy McGreedy1970's, 1980's 
The Hartford insurancethe Hartford Elkdebuted 1974 
Hawaiian PunchPunchy (the Hawaiian Punch Guy), and Oaf/Opiedebuted 1961 
Holiday InnJohn Holiday1950s–1980sMascot was Paul Revere-like character
HondaMr. Opportunity20042011[5] 
HondaStrawberry Shortcake2014CGI doll version of the character
Honey Nut Cheerios cerealBuzz the bee originally voiced by Arnold Stang
Hostess Brands King Ding Dong / King Don associated with chocolate snack cakes sold as Ding Dongs or King Dons
Hotels.comCaptain Obviousdebuted 2014ad campaign created by Crispin Porter & Bogusky, portrayed by Brandon Moynihan[6]
Hotpoint home appliancesHappy Hotpointdebuted 1955played by Mary Tyler Moore
Howard Johnson's RestaurantsSimple Simon & The Pieman1930s–1970sCreated by John Alcott
Howard Johnson's Motor LodgesSimple Simon & The Lamplighter1950s–1970s
Hubba Bubba bubble gumThe Hubba-Bubba Gum Fighterdebuted 1979 
ICEE frozen drinksICEE Polar Bear  
Ipana toothpasteBucky Beaver19571959voiced by Jimmie Dodd
Isuzu autoJoe Isuzu19861990played by David Leisure
Italian Swiss Colony wineLittle old winemaker1960splayed by Ludwig Stössel, voiced by Jim Backus
Jack in the Box restaurantsJack, the ping-pong-ball-headed man1994present 
Jax BeerElephant and Bartenderlate-1950s and early-1960svoiced by Mike Nichols and Elaine May
Jell-O gelatinChinese babydebuted 1959voiced by Allen Swift
Jelly Belly jelly beansMr. Jelly Belly1996present 
JollibeeJollibee1980–present
Jolly RancherFruit Gang2015present 
Keds shoesKedso the Clown  
Kolonel Keds  
Kaptain Keds and Kedzam  
Keebler snacksErnie Keebler and the Keebler elves1968presentErnie voiced by Parley Baer for many years
Kellogg's Apple Jacks cerealCinnamon & Applemid-2000spresent
Kellogg's Froot Loops cerealToucan Sam1952–presentvoiced by Mel Blanc, Paul Frees, Maurice LaMarche
Puey, Susey, Louis1994–presentToucan Sam's nephews
Kellogg's Frosted Flakes cerealTony the Tiger1951voiced by Dal McKennon, Thurl Ravenscroft, Lee Marshall and now Tex Brashear
Kellogg's Honey Smacks cerealCliffy the Clown19531956
Smaxey the Seal19571961
Quick Draw McGraw19611965
The Smackin' Bandit1965half-mule half-kangaroo who kissed everyone in sight
The Smackin' Brothers1966early-1970stwo boys dressed in boxing shorts and boxing gloves
Indian Chiefearly-1970s
Dig 'Em Frog19721986, 1987presentoriginally voiced by Howard Morris
Love Smack's1982heart-shaped dog who hugged children
Wally the Bear1986–1987
Kellogg's Pop-TartsMilton the Toaster1970s1980svoiced by William Schallert
Kellogg's Raisin Bran cerealSunny the sun1966presentoriginally voiced by Daws Butler
Kellogg's Rice Krispies cerealSnap, Crackle and Pop1928present 
Kellogg's Sugar Pops cerealSugar Pops Pete1950s 
Keystone Light beerKeith Stone2009–present 
KFC restaurantsColonel Sanders Colonel Harland Sanders founded Kentucky Fried Chicken and eventually became its mascot; a later cartoon version was voiced by Randy Quaid.
Kia SoulHip-Hop Hamsters2010–presentlip-synchs to Black Sheep's 1992 single "The Choice Is Yours." The Hamsters later updated their style to coincide with the Soul's added features.
Kia ForteThe HotBot2013–presentplayed by Miss USA 2011 Alyssa Campanella
Kia OptimaMorpheus2014–presentactor Laurence Fishburne reprising his character from The Matrix
Kid Cuisine mealsK.C. Penguin  
Kleenex table napkinsManners the butler19571950splayed by Richard Cutting
Kool cigarettesWillie the Kool penguindebuted 1930shas a wife named Millie
Kool-Aid drink mixesKool-Aid Man1975present 
Kraft Macaroni & CheeseCheesasaurus Rex  
Kraft Singles cheeseDairy Fairydebuted 1980s 
Lee JeansBuddy Lee doll1998presentbased on the doll who debuted in 1921
Liberty Mutual InsuranceLimu Emu & Doug2019presentcop-like insurance agents (a human male and a emu sidekick); parody on 1970s TV crime drama shows
Life cerealLittle Mikey, the freckled-face kid19721981played by John Gilchrist
Little Caesars pizzaLittle Caesar  
Lucky Charms cerealLucky the Leprechaun1964presentoriginally voiced by Arthur Anderson
M&M's candyRed and Yellow M&M's characters1960spresentoriginally voiced by Don Messick and Stan Freberg, now widely popular as CG spokescandies, voiced by Billy West and J.K. Simmons, respectively
Blue and Green M&M's characters1996present (Blue), 1997present (Green)Blue originally voiced by Phil Hartman now Rob Pruitt; Green voiced by Cree Summer 
Orange M&M's character1998presentvoiced by Eric Kricberger
Brown M&M's character2010presentvoiced by Vanessa Williams
Mad magazineAlfred E. Neuman1954present 
Major Magic's All Star Pizza RevueMajor Magic19851997
MalektronicRocketman2014–present 
Malt-O-Meal cerealCool Blue and Li'l Oaty1998present 
Marlboro cigarettesthe Marlboro Mandebuted 1954Wayne McLaren died 1992 Lung cancer
David McLean, died 1995 Lung cancer
Dick Hammer, died 1998 Lung cancer
Eric Lawson died 2014 COPD
Robert “Bob” Norris, died 2019 (natural causes, was actually a non-smoker; did 12 years until decided to end the role because he didn’t want his children to smoke)
Mattel toysMatty Mattel and Sisterbelle19591962 
MaypoMarky Maypo1956presentcreated by Storyboard, Inc. (John Hubley)
Maytag home appliancesOl' Lonely, the  Maytag repairmandebuted 1967played by Jesse White (19671988), Gordon Jump (19882003), Hardy Rawls (2003present)
The McClatchy CompanyScoopy, Gabby and TeeVee, The McClatchy Bees1943–presentcreated by Walt Disney Productions; Scoopy is the mascot for the Sacramento Bee, Modesto Bee and Fresno Bee newspapers; Gabby was the radio mascot for McClatchy's former radio stations and TeeVee was the television mascots of now CBS O&O KOVR-TV/Sacramento and Nexstar Media Group's NBC affiliate KMJ-TV (now KSEE-TV)/Fresno.
McDonald's restaurantsSpeedee1948–1962Original Mascot
Ronald McDonald1959presentoriginally played in Washington, D.C. by Willard Scott
Hamburglar19712003criminal type who stole hamburgers every chance he had. Originally voiced by Howard Morris, later by Charlie Adlder and Carl W. Wolfe
Grimace19712003purple character originally stole milkshakes, part of a larger population of Grimaces
Captain Crook19701985
Mayor McCheese19711985incompetent mayor of McDonaldland
The Professor19711985scientist who served as McDonaldland's inventor and researcher
Officer Big Mac19711985Chief of Police of McDonaldland
Fry Kids19721996originally known as Gobblins then Fry Guys, finally Fry Kids as Fry Girls were added. Differently colored shaggy ball like creatures with long legs but no arms, looked like pom-pon's with eyes and legs
The Hamburger Patch19731985anthropomorphized hamburgers that grew on plants and were picked for consumption by Ronald McDonald and the Hamburglar
Trash Cans1970stwin garbage cans that were used to encourage people to throw garbage out in correct areas
Birdie the Early Bird19802003yellow bird with pink jumpsuit and flight cap and scarf
The Happy Meal Gang1984late 2000shamburger, french fries, regular sized drink, McNugget Buddies ( chicken nuggets added 1989) and Happy Meal Box (added 2004)
Uncle O'Grimacey19771990sGrimace's green Irish Uncle who visited every St. Patrick's Day
CosMc1980s1999alien who sporadically appeared to trade items for McDonald's food
Bernice1992mid-1990sstrange creature who showed up in McDonaldland occasionally
Vulture1980s1990sunnamed vulture who appeared in several multi-commercial segments
Sundae19992000sRonald McDonald's dog
Iam Hungary19982001floating, fast green fuzzball with orange arms and monstrous face
Griddler2003character who stole McGriddles from the main characters
Mike the Microphone1980sone time character who guarded door and ran studio in McDonaldland Magical Radio Station
Dr. Berlin Fries2010shuman Frenchman with English accent, obsessed with french fries
Admiral Frownie2010sreplacement character of Grimace, similar to Grimace except he is dark brown to resemble Dark Chocolate Brownie
Mac Tonight19861997played by Doug Jones
McKee Foods Little Debbie 1960s-present brand of snack cakes; character based on founder's 4 year-old granddaughter.
Meadow Gold Dairies of HawaiiLani Moo1949–presentname was selected in a contest sponsored by its predecessor Dairymen's Association 
The Izard of Pog; Poglodyte1971–presentmascots for Meadow Gold Hawaii's POG drinks
Meow Mix cat foodMeow Mix Cat1972present 
Merrill LynchMerrill the bull  
Metro-Goldwyn-MayerLeo the Lion1924–presentbased on the Goldwyn Company mascot, 1917–24
MichelinBibendum1894–presentAlso known as the Michelin Man
Micro MachinesThe Micro Machines ManPerformed by John Moschitta Jr.
Miller Lite beerThe Miller Lite Beer Refs2004present 
MobilThe Mobil Pegasus1911present 
Morton SaltThe Morton Salt Girl1914present 
Mr. Clean cleaning productsMr. Clean1958presentfirst live-action Mr. Clean played by House Peters, Jr.
Mrs. Butterworth's syrupMrs. Butterworthtalking syrup bottle
MTM EnterprisesMimsie the Cat19701998 
National Crime Prevention CouncilMcGruff the Crime Dog1978present 
National Federation of Coffee Growers (Colombia)Juan Valdez1959presentplayed by José F. Duval (19591969), Carlos Sánchez (19692006), Carlos Castañeda (2006–present)
National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationVince and Larry, the crash test dummies19851999voiced by Jack Burns and Lorenzo Music, respectively
NBCNBC Peacock19561975, 1979–presentfirst appeared in 1956, debuted as animated logo in 1957
Nestlé QuikFarfel the Dog19531965played by ventriloquist Jimmy Nelson
Nestlé Quik/NesQuikThe Quik Bunny/NesQuik Bunny1973presentvoiced by Barry Gordon
Nevada Air Quality Management DivisionDusty the Dusthole2003–present  known for catchphrase "Don't Be a Dusthole!"; played by Alan Burd
The New YorkerEustace Tilley1925–presentFirst drawn by Rea Irvin
Nike athletic shoeLi'l Pennydebuted 1996voiced by Chris Rock, based on basketball's Penny Hardaway
9Lives cat foodMorris the Cat1968presentvoiced by John Erwin
OfficeMaxthe Rubberband Man20042005played by Eddie Steeples
Old Milwaukee beerThe Swedish Bikini Team1991 
Old Spice aftershavethe Old Spice sailor1970s1980splayed by John Bennett Perry
Old Spice body washThe Man Your Man Could Smell Like2010–presentplayed by Isaiah Mustafa
Orbit chewing gumVanessa2002presentplayed by Vanessa Branch
Owens Corning Fiberglass InsulationThe Pink Panther
Palmolive dish detergentMadge the manicurist19661992played by Jan Miner
Pampers diapersPampers pampa  
Partnership for a Drug-Free AmericaPatsy2008not-so-informed housewife/mother in the "Don't Be A Patsy" commercials. Played by Pam Cook
Pea Soup Andersen'sHap-pea and Pea-Weedebuted 1957"non-identical twins" voiced by Bob Elliott and Ray Goulding
Pep Boys auto parts storesManny, Moe, and Jack caricatures based on founders Emanuel "Manny" Rosenfeld, Maurice L. "Moe" Strauss, and W. Graham "Jack" Jackson
Pets.comPets.com Sock Puppet originally performed by Michael Ian Black; now mascot for auto loan company Bar None
Philadelphia Cream CheeseThe Angels1999–presentoriginated in Canada in 1994, although TV spots were produced in US; played in various ads by Linda Kash, Kelly Hu and Krista Sutton
Piels beerBert and Harry, the Piels brothers19551960voiced by Bob Elliott (Harry) and Ray Goulding (Bert)
PillsburyPoppin' Fresh, the Pillsbury Doughboy1965presentvoiced first by Paul Frees, currently by JoBe Cerny
Pine-Sol cleaning detergentThe Pine Sol Lady played by Diane Amos
Planters snacksMr. Peanut1916present 
Popsicle ice popsPopsicle Pete1940s1995 
Post Cereals' Honeycomb cerealHoneycomb Kid1980s 
The Crazy Cravingdebuted 1990s 
Post Cereals' Golden Crisp cerealSugar Bear1949–presentvoiced by Sterling Holloway, Gerry Matthews
PringlesJulius Pringles1967–present 
Progressive auto insuranceFlo2008–presentactress Stephanie Courtney
Flobot2012–presentrobot version of Flo, who is jealous of her "replacement"
Jamie2008–present"The Number 1 'Number 2' assistant" and leader of the company's Acappella group Mad Harmony
The Progressive Insurance Box2013–presenttalkative box who brags about "his" fame from the commercials featuring Flo
Mara2019–presentFlo’s friend and assistant, who feels like she’s unattractive and tends to drive guys away when she talks about insurance
Motaur2019–presenthalf man-half motorcycle
Dr. Rick2020–presentparody of Dr. Phil
Qantas AirlinesQantas koaladebuted 1967voiced by Howard Morris
Quaker OatsThe Quaker Oats man1877present 
Quaker Quake cerealQuake19651970screated by Jay Ward Productions, voiced by William Conrad
Quaker Quisp cerealQuisp19651970svoiced by Daws Butler
Quizno's restaurantsSpongmonkey20032004characters originated on an internet blog
Baby Bob2005presentBaby Bob character originated on an internet blog, and had a short-lived CBS show; currently voiced by Ken Hudson Campbell
Raid insecticidesThe Raid bugs1956present 
RCANipper, the curious dog1900–present 
Chipperdebuted 1991puppy version of Nipper
Real California CheeseHappy Cowsdebuted 1990sproduct website  
Red Baron Frozen PizzaThe Baroness2019-presentdresses in a bomber jacket with patches and says "Don't Fly Alone."
Red White & Blue BeerHarmon R. Whittle1980s 
Robert Hall clothing storesRobert Hall birds1950s 
Rossy storesPerrôt2011–present 
Savarin coffeeEl Exigente1960s1970splayed by Carlos Montalbán
Schlitz Malt LiquorSchlitz Malt Liquor bull  
ScotTowelsAunt Bluebelle1970svoiced by Mae Questel
Scrubbing Bubbles bathroom cleanerThe Scrubbing Bubblesoriginally voiced by Paul Winchell
Serta mattressesSerta Counting Sheep animated by Aardman Animations
7UP soft drinkFreshup Freddie1950screated by Walt Disney Productions
The UnDeerearly 1970sChristmas mascot - 7UP issued a promotional hand puppet of the character; voiced by Paul Frees
Cool Spot19871995 
Showbiz PizzaThe Rock-afire Explosion19801993
Sinclair Oil CorporationDino the Dinosaur19301969, 1976presentIn 1932 Apatosaurus became the company trademark after a 1930 ad campaign associated dinosaurs with Mesozoic Era origins of Sinclair's Pennsylvania petroleum.[7] 
Six Flags theme parksMr. Six20042005, 2009presentdances to Vengaboys' "We Like to Party"
SnappleThe Snapple Lady19901994, 19962008played by Wendy Kaufman, who also worked for Snapple
Snuggle fabric softenerSnuggle Bear designed by Kermit Love, voiced by Corinne Orr
SonyRandy the Transistor Radio1963used for a promotional booklet
Sprite soft drinkMiles Thirst2004present 
StarKist TunaCharlie the Tunadebuted 1961voiced by Herschel Bernardi
Starbucks coffeeThe Starbucks melusine  
Subway restaurantsThe Subway Shadow2000hand shadow voiced by Gilbert Gottfried
Peter Griffin2005Peter from FOX's Family Guy was used in an ad for Subway
Jared2000–2015Real name Jared Fogle, based on his real-life testimonial of losing weight by eating Subway sandwiches; was dropped from the company after he was convicted of child pornography, underage trafficking and having sex with a minor.
Sun-Maid raisinsThe Sun-Maid Raisin Girl  
Taco Bell restaurantsThe Taco Bell chihuahua19972000voiced by Carlos Alazraqui; portrayed by a chihuahua named Gidget
Taco John's restaurantsWhiplash the Cowboy Monkey2004presentCapuchin monkey wearing a sombrero and poncho 
Tampax TamponsTampax Mother Nature2008–presentdresses conservatively and arrives to give women who might be reaching their period a "gift" (a red box), only to be turned down by her intended targets. Played by Catherine Lloyd Burns
Target StoresSpot the dog      
Taster's Choice instant coffeeTaster's Choice coupledebuted 1990played by Anthony Head and Sharon Maughan
TD BankTD[8]2000sReplaced the Commerce Bank's "Mr. C" after the merger
TheCab (Honolulu)The TuTuTus2010-presentplayed by Frank De Lima in multiple roles; the “TuTuTus” (three elderly women all played by De Lima) is a play on the word “Tutu,” which is Hawaiian for grandmother and a pun on TheCab’s phone number.
Toilet Duck toilet cleanerToilet Duckmid-1990sanimatronic, helmet wearing duck head sticking out of a small tank. Typically strolls into the bathroom saying "Quack, quaaack!"
Tootsie Roll PopsMr. Owl1970presentvoiced by Paul Winchell
Mr. Turtle
Tootsie RollsCaptain Tootsie  
ToyotaJan2010–presentplayed by Laurel Coppock
Toyota HighlanderMuppets2014presentsings "No Time For Boring"
Toys "R" Us storesGeoffrey the giraffe1960s2018Animatronic Geoffrey voiced by Jim Hanks
TravelocityThe roaming garden gnomedebuted 2003 
TriStar Picturesthe TriStar Pegasus1984present 
Trix cerealTrix rabbit1959presentoriginally voiced by Mort Marshall; lately has been done by Russell Horton
Trojan condomsTrojan Man  
Twinkies snacksTwinkie the Kid  
Ty-D-Bol toilet cleanersThe Ty-D-Bol Man played by Mark Matheisen, Fred Miltonberg, Bob Kaliban, Larry Sprinkle
Uncle Ben's riceUncle Ben1946presentpurportedly named after a Texas rice grower
United States Forest ServiceSmokey Bear1944presentthe original was found clinging to a charred tree limb as a cub following a forest fire
Woodsy Owl1970presentvoiced by Frank Welker
United States Post Office Department/United States Postal ServiceMr. ZIP1960s1970s 
VerizonThe Verizon Wireless Test Man20042011played by Paul Marcarelli; famous for the quote "Can you hear me now?  Good." In 2016 Marcarelli became the new spokesman for rival Sprint and "dissed" Verizon in new ads, saying "Can You Hear THAT!"
Viking CarpetsErik The VikingMade by International Fiberglass
Vlasic PicklesThe Vlasic storkdebuted 1970s 
Volkswagen GTIMiss Helgadebuted 2006 
The Walt Disney CompanyMickey Mouse1928-presentOriginally voiced by creator Walt Disney, later Jimmy MacDonald, Clarence Nash, Wayne Allwine, Bret Iwan
Jiminy Cricket1940-presentOriginally voiced by Cliff Edwards, later Clarence Nash, Eddie Carroll, Phil Snyder, Joe Ochman
Tinker Bell1953-present 
Wendy'sFolksy Version of Dave Thomas1989-2002 
Wendy1969–presentnamed after Wendy Thomas
Where's The Beef Lady1984Portrayed by actress Clara Peller

Other notable characters and their brands

  • Betty Boop (1930–1992) – Paramount Pictures (former)
  • Brawny Lumberjack – Brawny paper towels
  • Brother Dominick – Xerox
  • Bugs Bunny – Warner Bros. Entertainment
  • Culligan Lady – Culligan water softener
  • Faygo Kid – Faygo soda pop
  • Felix the Cat (1919–1921) – DreamWorks Classics (former)
  • Foster Farm Chickens – Foster Farms poultry
  • Fruit of The Loom Guys – Fruit of The Loom underwear/sleepwear
  • John H. Goodwill – Goodwill thrift store
  • Kenner Gooney Bird – Kenner’s Toy Company
  • Klondike The Polar Bear – Klondike ice cream bar
  • Little Foster – Foster’s Freeze restaurants
  • Little Miss Sunbeam – Sunbeam bread
  • Luxo Jr.Pixar
  • Mario – Nintendo video games
  • Mia (Native American woman) – Land O'Lakes butter and dairy products
  • The MinionsIllumination Entertainment
  • Mr. Bluelight – K-Mart stores
  • Mr. Bubble – Mr. Bubble bubble bath
  • Mr. Goodwin – Crest toothpaste
  • Mr. Meow – Meow Mix cat food
  • Mr. Potato Head and Mrs. Potato Head – Lays chips
  • Mrs. Butterworth – Mrs. Butterworth maple syrup
  • Mrs. Olson – Folgers coffee
  • Nipper The Dog (fox terrier) – RCA Victor Company
  • Orville Redenbacher – Orville Redenbacher gourmet popcorn
  • Oscar Mayer Bologny Kid – Oscar Mayer bologna
  • Pikachu - Pokémon merchandise
  • Polar Bear – Icee drinks
  • Popeye (1930-1988) - Paramount Pictures (former)
  • Pillsbury Doughboy – Pillsbury rolls/pastries
  • Popsicle Pete – Popsicle frozen pops
  • Punchy – Hawaiian Punch drink mix
  • Quaker Oats Man – Quaker Oats cereal
  • Quiky The Bunny – Nestle’s Quik (later changed to Nesquik) Chocolate milk drink mix
  • Quisp – Quisp cereal
  • Reddy Kilowatt
  • Rosie The Waitress – Bounty paper towels
  • Sailor Jack & Bingo – Cracker Jacks
  • Sambo & Jolly Tiger – Sambo’s restaurants
  • Scrat - Blue Sky Studios
  • Scrubbing Bubbles – Scrubbing Bubbles bathroom cleaner
  • Slappy the Dummy - Goosebumps merchandise
  • Sleepy Bear – Travelodge motels
  • Slush Puppie – Slush Puppie drinks
  • Snap, Crackle & Pop – Kellogg’s Rice Krispies cereal
  • Sonic The Hedgehog - SEGA video games
  • Speedy – Alka Seltzer medicine
  • SpongeBob SquarePantsNickelodeon
  • Talking T-Shirt – Adidas sportswear
  • Tropic-Ana – Tropicana orange juice
  • The "Tu Tu Tu's" – The Cab (Honolulu, Hawaii)
  • Mr. Magoo - DreamWorks Classics
  • Uncle Ben – Uncle Ben’s converted rice
  • W.C. Fritos – Frito Lay corn chips
  • Woody Woodpecker - Universal Studios

See also

References

  1. Schneider, Jason (6 June 2015). "14 THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT A&W; RESTAURANTS". Thrillist Media Group Inc. Archived from the original on 20 September 2016. Retrieved 6 June 2017.
  2. Sacks, Ethan (26 April 2011). "Aflac duck's new voice: Radio exec Dan McKeague replaces Gilbert Gottfried, fired for Japan jokes". Daily News. New York.
  3. "Most Popular E-mail Newsletter". USA Today. 18 August 2011.
  4. "8 Things You Might Not Know About Cheerios". 5 February 2016. Retrieved 29 August 2018.
  5. "Meet The Brand Mascots America Hates Most". Retrieved 29 August 2018.
  6. Elliott, Stuart (25 February 2014). "For Hotels.com's Campaign, the Answer Was Obvious". The New York Times. Retrieved 11 December 2019.
  7. "1930s (History | Sinclair Oil)". www.sinclairoil.com. Retrieved 27 March 2017.
  8. Blumenthal, Jeff (16 June 2010). "TD mascot sporty, fun and 'strains intellectual scrutiny'". Philadelphia Business Journal. Retrieved 20 October 2010.

Further reading

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