TV commercials in the ’70s and ’80s weren’t just about selling products; they were about creating iconic characters that stuck in our minds. These lovable (and sometimes quirky) figures became household names, adding charm to the otherwise mundane task of advertising. Whether they made us laugh, tugged at our heartstrings, or simply made us crave a particular product, these characters brought a unique magic to television. While some have faded from memory, they remain nostalgic treasures for those who grew up during this era. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit 12 forgotten TV commercial characters we absolutely loved back then.
1. The Frito Bandito
The Frito Bandito was a cheerful, mustachioed cartoon bandit who sang his way into our hearts while swiping bags of Fritos corn chips. Voiced by Mel Blanc, the legendary voice actor behind Bugs Bunny, the Bandito had a catchy theme song that kids couldn’t stop humming. His mischievous charm made him a favorite, even though his antics revolved around stealing snacks.
However, by today’s standards, the character is considered problematic due to its stereotypical depiction of Mexican culture. At the time, though, the Frito Bandito was a beloved figure who brought humor to TV screens. Despite being retired in the early ’70s, his memory lives on as a symbol of a bygone era when commercials leaned heavily on playful caricatures to sell their products.
2. Mr. Whipple
If there was one person who made you think twice about squeezing toilet paper, it was Mr. Whipple. Played by actor Dick Wilson, Mr. Whipple was the fussy grocery store manager who constantly scolded customers for squeezing Charmin toilet paper—while secretly indulging in the habit himself. His catchphrase, “Please don’t squeeze the Charmin,” became one of the most memorable lines in advertising history.
Mr. Whipple’s relatable mix of annoyance and hypocrisy made him an endearing figure. Audiences loved watching him try (and fail) to resist the temptation of Charmin’s softness. His commercials ran for over two decades, proving just how much people adored his quirky character. While the ads may seem quaint now, Mr. Whipple remains a nostalgic reminder of a simpler time when humor and repetition could make a product unforgettable.
3. Morris the Cat
Morris the Cat was the epitome of feline sophistication and the face of 9Lives cat food. Known for his sardonic wit and finicky palate, Morris charmed audiences with his dry commentary and undeniable charisma. He wasn’t just any cat—he was a star, voiced by a human actor who brought his aloof yet lovable personality to life.
Morris’s commercials stood out because they treated him like a diva, demanding only the finest in feline cuisine. His appeal extended beyond pet owners; everyone loved his snarky attitude. While Morris isn’t as widely recognized today, his legacy lives on as one of the most iconic animal spokescharacters of all time.
4. The Maytag Repairman
The Maytag Repairman wasn’t just selling appliances—he was selling reliability. Played by Jesse White and later Gordon Jump, the Repairman was famous for being “the loneliest guy in town” because Maytag products rarely needed fixing. His comedic plight and relatable grumbles made him a beloved figure in American households.
The Repairman symbolized a time when durability was a selling point, and his commercials often played on the humor of his boredom. While his character has evolved over the years, the original Maytag Repairman remains a nostalgic figure for those who remember when appliance commercials were as entertaining as sitcoms.
5. The Dunkin’ Donuts “Time to Make the Donuts” Guy
Fred the Baker, played by Michael Vale, was the hardworking face of Dunkin’ Donuts throughout the ’80s. His catchphrase, “Time to make the donuts,” became a cultural phenomenon, capturing the dedication and early-morning grind of donut-making. Fred’s weary yet lovable demeanor made him a relatable figure for anyone who worked long hours.
Fred’s commercials resonated because they highlighted the effort behind a product many people took for granted. His dedication to his craft made him a symbol of reliability and hard work. While Fred retired in the late ’90s, his legacy as Dunkin’s most iconic character endures, reminding us of the days when ads had a heartwarming, human touch.
6. Madge the Manicurist
Madge the Manicurist was the friendly spokesperson for Palmolive dish soap, known for her famous line, “You’re soaking in it!” Played by actress Jan Miner, Madge reassured her customers that soaking their hands in dish soap wasn’t just safe—it was moisturizing. Her warm personality and no-nonsense advice made her a trusted figure in American kitchens.
Madge’s commercials stood out because they felt like conversations with a friend. Her charm and relatability made viewers feel like she was someone they knew personally. While Palmolive has moved on to different advertising campaigns, Madge remains a nostalgic icon for anyone who remembers her comforting presence during TV breaks.
7. The Jolly Green Giant
“Ho, ho, ho!” The Jolly Green Giant was the towering mascot for Green Giant vegetables, bringing wholesome goodness to dinner tables across America. With his leafy outfit and booming voice, the Giant represented health and vitality, encouraging families to eat their veggies.
What made the Jolly Green Giant memorable wasn’t just his imposing size but his friendly demeanor. He made vegetables seem exciting, which was no small feat in a time when kids often turned their noses up at greens. While he’s still around in a modernized form, the original Giant holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up seeing him on their screens.
8. Clara Peller: “Where’s the Beef?”
Clara Peller became an unlikely star in the 1980s as the face of Wendy’s “Where’s the Beef?” campaign. Her gravelly voice and no-nonsense delivery made her catchphrase an instant hit, turning her into a cultural icon almost overnight.
Clara’s commercials poked fun at competitors’ skimpy burgers, but it was her feisty personality that stole the show. She represented the everyman (or everywoman) demanding value for their money. Though her time in the spotlight was brief, her impact was enormous, and “Where’s the Beef?” remains one of the most famous advertising slogans of all time.
9. The Kool-Aid Man
“Oh yeah!” The Kool-Aid Man was the larger-than-life mascot who burst through walls to save the day with a refreshing pitcher of Kool-Aid. His cheerful attitude and dramatic entrances made him a hit with kids, while parents appreciated the fun he brought to family gatherings.
The Kool-Aid Man’s antics were as memorable as his catchphrase, and his commercials often felt like mini-adventures. While he’s still around in some form, the original, wall-smashing Kool-Aid Man remains a nostalgic symbol of childhood fun and sugary treats.
10. The California Raisins
The California Raisins were a claymation sensation, singing Motown hits like “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” to promote California-grown raisins. Their smooth moves and catchy tunes made them a cultural phenomenon, spawning merchandise, TV specials, and even a Grammy nomination.
What made the Raisins so special was their unique blend of humor, music, and creativity. They turned a humble snack into a pop culture icon, proving that even raisins could be cool. Though they’ve long since disappeared, the California Raisins remain a fond memory for anyone who grew up in the ’80s.
11. The Ty-D-Bol Man
The Tidy Bowl Man was a miniature figure who sailed around a toilet tank in his tiny boat, promoting the cleaning power of Tidy Bowl. His dapper outfit and calm demeanor made him a reassuring presence in an otherwise unglamorous setting.
While the idea of a man floating in a toilet might seem odd now, it was a clever way to make a mundane product memorable. The Tidy Bowl Man represented cleanliness and order, and his quirky commercials left a lasting impression on viewers.
12. Charlie the Tuna
Charlie the Tuna was the witty, beret-wearing fish who constantly tried (and failed) to prove he had “good taste” to make it into a can of StarKist tuna. With his smooth-talking charm, Charlie became one of the most recognizable characters in advertising history.
What made Charlie so endearing was his optimism and persistence. Despite being rejected time and again, he never gave up. His story was both funny and heartwarming, making him a beloved figure for generations. Charlie may no longer grace our screens, but his legacy lives on as a symbol of creative advertising.
These TV commercial characters weren’t just selling products—they were part of our lives. They made us laugh, gave us something to talk about, and, most importantly, reminded us of a time when advertising had a little more personality. Revisiting them today brings back fond memories and a sense of nostalgia for the days when even commercials could bring a smile to our faces.
