1. Morris the Cat – 9Lives
Morris the Cat was the finicky, witty feline who helped make 9Lives cat food a household name in the 1970s and 80s. His snooty yet lovable personality made him one of the most recognizable cats in advertising.
2. The Taco Bell Chihuahua
The sassy Chihuahua became a pop culture icon in the late 1990s with the catchphrase “¡Yo quiero Taco Bell!” His small stature and big attitude made the commercials unforgettable.
3. Spuds MacKenzie – Bud Light
The original party animal, Spuds MacKenzie, was a Bull Terrier who took the 1980s by storm. His laid-back, beach-loving vibe made him the ultimate party mascot.
4. The Energizer Bunny
The pink, drum-beating Energizer Bunny became a symbol of unstoppable energy, outlasting everything in sight. “Still going!” became a cultural catchphrase, and the bunny is still drumming today.
5. Budweiser Clydesdales
Since 1933, the Budweiser Clydesdales have captivated viewers with their elegance and strength, appearing in memorable commercials that often air during the Super Bowl.
6. The Geico Gecko
The Geico Gecko, with his charming British accent, has been making insurance more approachable and memorable since 1999. His witty and relatable commercials have made him an advertising mainstay.
7. Charlie the Tuna – Starkist
The smooth-talking, beret-wearing Charlie the Tuna made his debut in the 1960s. His ongoing attempts to be selected for Starkist, only to be repeatedly rejected with “Sorry, Charlie,” were humorous and engaging.
8. Smokey Bear – Forest Fire Prevention
Smokey Bear, introduced in the 1940s, is the longest-running public service advertising campaign. His serious yet friendly message, “Only you can prevent forest fires,” has made him an enduring environmental icon.
9. The Coca-Cola Polar Bears
The lovable Coca-Cola Polar Bears, first appearing in the early 1990s, became synonymous with winter and the joy of sharing a Coke. Their playful, family-centered commercials have been a staple of holiday marketing.
10. Woodsy Owl – “Give a Hoot, Don’t Pollute”
Woodsy Owl, an environmental mascot created in the 1970s, encouraged people to take care of the environment. His slogan, “Give a hoot, don’t pollute,” taught generations about conservation.
11. Alex the Dog – Stroh’s Beer
Alex, the clever Golden Retriever, starred in Stroh’s Beer commercials in the 1980s. Known for his ability to fetch a cold beer from the fridge, Alex became a symbol of fun and loyalty.
12. The Meow Mix Cat
The catchy “Meow, meow, meow, meow” jingle sung by a cat became instantly recognizable. The simple but effective Meow Mix commercials are still memorable to cat lovers today.
13. Mr. Owl – Tootsie Pop
Mr. Owl, the wise bird who famously answered the question “How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop?” left an impression with his calculated yet humorous “Three!” answer.
14. Chester Cheetah – Cheetos
Chester Cheetah, the cool, sunglass-wearing cheetah, has been the face of Cheetos for decades. Known for his mischievous antics and catchphrase “It ain’t easy bein’ cheesy,” Chester added a rebellious spirit to the brand.
15. Tony the Tiger – Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes
Tony the Tiger has been roaring about Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes since the 1950s. With his enthusiastic catchphrase, “They’re grrreat!” Tony has inspired generations of kids (and adults) to enjoy a hearty breakfast.
16. The Aflac Duck
The Aflac Duck, with its hilarious quacking and misadventures, became an advertising hit in the 2000s. The duck’s antics and catchphrase “Aflac!” helped make the insurance company’s name unforgettable.
