I love some celebrity voiceovers. Christine Lahti is great in the Oil of Olay spots and Antonio Banderas makes me wish I was congested, but here is an article that may make major companies think twice about using celebrity voiceovers — definitely an increased risk of conflict of interest:
How Jeff Bridges Voice-overs Imperiled Hyundai’s Oscars Blitz
by Brian Steinberg – Published: March 01, 2010NEW YORK (AdAge.com) — Hyundai Motor America was all ready to bombard this year’s Oscars with a raft of commercials — seven different spots were locked, loaded and ready to go. With just a few weeks to go before the March 7 ceremony, however, the company was told its commercials were unfit for air.
The problem? Actor Jeff Bridges has been doing voice-overs for Hyundai since 2007. But Mr. Bridges is also a nominee for best actor in this year’s contest for his role in “Crazy Heart” . . .
I feel bad for the car company, worse for their ad agency. That’s a tough spot to be in. Hope they work it out.
