Television and ads have gone hand in hand basically since television was invented. What better way to get eyes on your product than to slip in a couple commercials during everyone’s favorite TV shows? And if commercials aren’t enough, what if you could put an advertisement right into the show itself? That’s where product placement comes in, and it’s pretty much everywhere, in every show, unless it’s set in the ancient past or an alternate universe where the brands we know don’t exist. (No, the Game of Thrones Starbucks cup doesn’t count.) Usually these ads are subtle; a billboard off to the side of a shot, a soda can with the label conveniently facing the camera. Some subtle advertisements are, well, a little less subtle than others.
Product placement is like a magic trick: it works as long as your audience can’t see you doing it. As soon as it becomes obvious, the illusion is broken and we’re all reminded that we’re cogs in a capitalist machine that feeds off our money and attention. It’s terrible to be reminded of that fact in the middle of your favorite series, but, at this point, we’ve come to expect it. It can be kind of interesting to see what sorts of brand deals that networks and streamers have made to feature certain products, once you’re over how awkward it feels to watch people have random discussions about car safety features or new skincare products.
Without further ado, here are the ten most egregious examples of TV show product placement, from cars, luxury bags, and sandwich brands to furniture manufacturers, baby clothes, and frozen waffles. Proceed with caution, and hide your wallet.
The Most Egregious TV Show Product Placement Ever
Suddenly we’re thinking about buying a Prius… and a Subway sandwich… and some orange juice.
Gallery Credit: Emma Stefansky
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