The Gong Show: Ads That Could Never (Ever) Run Today
May 4, 2024
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Explore the controversial and outdated ads of the past that would never be allowed today. From doctors endorsing cigarettes to ads portraying sexist stereotypes, these commercials will make you cringe. Reflect on the evolution of advertising from the 50s to modern times, and see how marketing strategies have shifted over the years.
Historical ads showcased extreme examples of politically incorrect and sexist advertising, reflecting past societal norms.
Indie agencies provide creative freedom leading to standout campaigns that dominate award shows.
Deep dives
Importance of Indie Advertising Agencies
Independent advertising agencies offer a level of nimbleness and creativity that conglomerates can't match, leading to award-winning work. Working at an indie shop provides more freedom and direct involvement in the creative process, resulting in standout campaigns that dominate award shows. Indie agency news platforms like indieagency.news offer insights into the world of independent agencies, showcasing innovative campaigns and interviews with industry leaders.
The Gong Show: Chuck Barris and Reality TV
The Gong Show, hosted by Chuck Barris, introduced an unconventional format where amateur performers faced judges, with a chance to win based on their act. Chuck Barris, a talented TV producer, revolutionized reality television with unscripted, quirky shows like The Newlywed Game. The show's unpredictable acts ranged from terrible singers to bizarre performances, creating a chaotic and entertaining half-hour of television.
Controversial Ads and Commercials
Historical ads showcased extreme examples of politically incorrect and sexist advertising, ranging from promoting Marlboro cigarettes with babies to implying that women could save their marriage with household products. Advertisements depicted women as bad drivers, emphasized body image stereotypes, and even featured endorsements from doctors for cigarettes. These ads reflect the prevalent attitudes and norms of past decades, highlighting the evolution of advertising standards over time.
This week, we go back in advertising history and take a look at the ads and commercials that could never, ever, EVER run today.
They are either so politically incorrect, so sexist, or so inappropriate, you won’t believe your ears.
From doctors recommending cigarettes, to 7-Up advertising to babies, to everyone singing about the joys of DDT, it’s amazing to think they all ran back in the day.