Growing up in the ’80s, television was a cornerstone of family life, providing an escape after long days filled with schoolwork. We eagerly anticipated our favorite sitcoms, along with the commercials that accompanied them. Just like the lyrics of our beloved ’80s songs, catchy commercial phrases often lodged themselves in our minds, leaving a lasting impact.
Advertisers of the ’70s and ’80s were masters of creating catchy tunes, memorable slogans, and striking visuals. Many of these advertisements are so memorable that they continue to evoke nostalgia more than two decades later—a sentiment that our children, who can easily skip commercials, may never truly grasp.
Partnership for a Drug-Free America
Catchphrase: “This is your brain. This is drugs. This is your brain on drugs. Any questions?”
The free-spirited ethos of the ’60s and the indulgence of the ’70s transitioned into the anti-drug campaigns of the ’80s. Nancy Reagan spearheaded initiatives to educate the public about the dangers of drug use, famously encouraging young people to “just say no.” However, nothing left a stronger impression on us than the unsettling image of a man frying an egg while equating it with our brains. Questions? None here.
Battleship
Catchphrase: “You sank my battleship!”
Battleship, a cherished game since the late ’60s, became a staple in family entertainment. Manufactured by the renowned Milton Bradley, the game brought with it a unique thrill of competition. The iconic phrase would often be uttered in a tone of playful defeat, cementing it as a part of our childhood memories. The 1985 electronic version introduced a symphony of sounds that still echoes in the minds of ’80s kids today.
The Clapper
Catchphrase: “Clap on! Clap off! The Clapper.”
The Clapper offered a hands-free way to control household electronics for those too comfortable to get up. With its unique “away” function, it could respond to any loud noise, leading to amusing situations—scaring off intruders, annoying neighbors, and inflating electricity bills all at once.
Chia Pet
Catchphrase: “Ch-ch-ch-chia!”
A delightful fusion of gardening and crafting, Chia Pets were marketed as both fun to grow and easy to care for. The same company behind The Clapper produced these quirky items, and if you pay close attention, you might catch a glimpse of Chia in one of their Clapper commercials.
Life Cereal
Catchphrase: “He likes it! Hey, Mikey!”
In this memorable ad, two older boys persuade their notoriously picky younger brother to try Life cereal. If Mikey, who was known for rejecting nearly everything, found it appealing, then surely we could too. Mikey eventually transcended the commercials, becoming a subject of urban legend due to rumors surrounding Pop Rocks and soda. Thankfully, John Gilchrist, the actor who played Mikey, is alive and well, thriving in media sales.
Tootsie Pop
Catchphrase: “How many licks does it take to get to the Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Pop?”
The curiosity of a young boy leads him to ask various animals this burning question. Ultimately, he approaches a wise owl who bites into the pop after just three licks. Studies conducted by Purdue University and others attempted to answer this question, with one licking machine concluding an average of 364 licks to reach the center.
Wendy’s
Catchphrase: “Where’s the beef?”
This campaign featured three elderly women humorously critiquing fast-food competitors. The fictional “Big Bun” contrasted sharply with Wendy’s offerings, leading to a memorable catchphrase. Clara Peller, the actress who delivered the line, embraced her newfound fame, appearing in numerous interviews and even a low-budget comedy in 1985.
Life Call
Catchphrase: “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up.”
This ad featured a man experiencing chest pains and a woman who had fallen, showcasing the product’s utility. While the ad aimed to evoke sympathy, many viewers found humor in its cheesiness. As children, we might have laughed, unaware that one day, we could be in similar situations, caring for aging relatives.
Dunkin Donuts
Catchphrase: “Time to make the donuts.”
In this beloved commercial, a dedicated man tirelessly prepared donuts, regardless of the weather. His unwavering commitment resonated with viewers, leaving us both empathetic and craving a donut or two.
While these commercials may seem trivial, they are a part of our collective memory, reminding us of our childhood desires and experiences. The jingles, visuals, and phrases will forever resonate within our generation.
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In summary, the commercials from our youth were far from inconsequential. They evoke memories of the things we cherished, the items we desired, and the phrases we simply cannot forget.