13 Classic TV Ads That Changed the Game
Some TV ads have done more than just sell products—they’ve shaped entire industries and changed the way we see things. These commercials sparked new trends, turned companies into household names, and left a lasting mark on pop culture. From catchy jingles to emotional storytelling, these 13 ads made an impact that went beyond just TV.
1. Apple’s “1984” Commercial
Apple’s “1984” Super Bowl commercial, directed by Ridley Scott, introduced the Macintosh computer. It portrayed a dystopian future dominated by conformity, broken by the arrival of the Mac. This ad remains one of the most powerful and memorable commercials for its cinematic quality and bold message.
2. Coca-Cola’s “Hilltop”
The Coca-Cola “Hilltop” ad from 1971 featured young people from all over the world singing “I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke” on a hilltop in Italy. Its message of unity and peace was a soothing balm for the social and political upheaval of the time, making it an enduring symbol of hope.
3. Nike’s “Just Do It” Featuring Michael Jordan
Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign was epitomized by commercials featuring Michael Jordan in the late 1980s. These ads, showcasing Jordan’s awe-inspiring athleticism and the slogan’s motivational message, helped Nike become synonymous with sports excellence and determination.
4. Wendy’s “Where’s the Beef?”
This 1984 Wendy’s commercial became a cultural phenomenon with the catchphrase, “Where’s the beef?” It humorously criticized competitors for their lack of substantial burger meat, and the phrase itself entered the lexicon as a general query for substance in an argument.
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5. Budweiser’s “Wassup?”
A series of Budweiser ads that started in 1999 featured friends greeting each other with an elongated “Wassup?!” while “watching the game, having a Bud.” This catchphrase quickly became a part of everyday slang and represents a time when commercials could drive popular culture.
6. McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It”
Launched in 2003, McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It” campaign featured a catchy jingle that became instantly recognizable worldwide. This slogan helped revitalize the brand’s image and is still used today, demonstrating its lasting appeal.
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7. Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like”
This 2010 Old Spice commercial revitalized the brand with its humorous, fast-paced monologue delivered by Isaiah Mustafa, suggesting that men could be like him if they used Old Spice. The ad was a viral sensation, demonstrating the power of humor in advertising.
8. Volkswagen’s “The Force”
Volkswagen’s 2011 Super Bowl commercial, “The Force,” featured a young child dressed as Darth Vader attempting to use the Force around the house, only to be surprised when his father remotely starts their VW car. It tugged at heartstrings and shared a message of childhood wonder.
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9. Pepsi’s “New Generation”
Pepsi’s early ’90s “New Generation” ads featured pop star Michael Jackson and capitalized on the youth movement of the era. These commercials positioned Pepsi as a youthful and exciting alternative to its competitors, aligning the brand with iconic musical talent.
10. Dos Equis’ “The Most Interesting Man in the World”
Starting in 2006, these Dos Equis commercials featured a suave, older gentleman whose life was filled with unbelievable adventures, making him “The Most Interesting Man in the World.” The ads were memorable for their humor and the tagline, “Stay thirsty, my friends.”
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11. Tootsie Pop’s “How Many Licks?”
This classic ad for Tootsie Pop dates back to 1970 and features a boy asking various animals, including the wise Mr. Owl, “How many licks does it take to get to the Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Pop?” This simple yet effective ad has remained in the collective consciousness for decades.
12. Got Milk? “Aaron Burr”
The “Got Milk?” campaign, which began in the 1990s, included a standout commercial featuring a history buff unable to answer a radio trivia question about Aaron Burr because his mouth is full of peanut butter and he’s out of milk. The phrase “Got Milk?” became a widely recognized catchphrase.
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13. De Beers’ “A Diamond is Forever”
Since the late 1940s, De Beers has been marketing diamonds with the idea that “A Diamond is Forever.” These ads romanticized diamonds, making them synonymous with eternal love and essential for marriage proposals. The slogan perfectly captured the product’s timeless appeal.
20 Hidden Gems in the Gaming World You Missed
In a world where AAA games grab all the headlines, there’s a whole universe of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These underrated games may not have the big budgets or blockbuster appeal, but they’re packed with creativity, charm, and unforgettable experiences. If you’ve grown weary of the mainstream and are craving something off the beaten path, this list will lead you to 20 incredible games you probably missed. Grab your controller, because it’s time to uncover some buried treasures.
20 Hidden Gems in the Gaming World You Missed
11 Inspiring Movie Quotes from the 2000s
Movies from the 2000s left us with some of the most memorable quotes that continue to inspire us today. Whether they’re about love, life, or finding your purpose, these 11 quotes from 2000s films will remind you of the power of movies to move and motivate us in unexpected ways.
11 Inspiring Movie Quotes from the 2000s
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