From Bonanza to Batman: When Fictional Characters Endorse Real Products

Under the Influence with Terry O'Reilly

11-01-2025 • 27 mins

In our first episode of 2025, we explore a strange aspect of advertising.


Specifically, when TV and movie characters endorse products. Not the actors themselves - but the characters they portray.


It's a trend that started in the early '60s with the Andy Griffith Show and Bonanza.


Today, it includes characters like Breaking Bad's Walter White and even Phil Dunphy from Modern Family.


Sometimes it's funny - and sometimes it bends the time/space continuum.


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