What Do You Call People Who Act in Commercials?
(By Ray Reese)
Actors in commercials may not always be the stars of blockbuster movies, but their contributions are essential to the advertising industry. These professionals play diverse roles, from delivering humorous punchlines to portraying relatable everyday characters. But what exactly do you call people who act in commercials?
1. Commercial Actors
The most straightforward term is “commercial actors.” These are individuals who perform in advertisements for television, streaming platforms, social media, or other mediums. Their primary role is to promote products, services, or brands through acting.
- Example: The person cheerfully showcasing the features of a new smartphone in a TV ad is a commercial actor.
2. Spokespersons
Some commercial actors are referred to as spokespersons if they consistently represent a specific brand. Spokespersons often build long-term associations with companies, becoming the recognizable “face” of a product or service.
- Example: Flo from Progressive Insurance, portrayed by actress Stephanie Courtney, is a well-known commercial spokesperson.
3. Voice Actors
Not all commercial performances involve on-camera work. Voice actors lend their voices to radio ads, animated commercials, or as narrators in TV spots. They are also an essential part of the commercial world, using vocal techniques to convey messages effectively.
- Example: The soothing voiceover describing luxury car features in a sleek commercial.
4. Brand Ambassadors
Actors who work regularly with a brand, both on and off-screen, are sometimes called brand ambassadors. These individuals not only appear in commercials but may also participate in promotional events or social media campaigns for the brand.
5. Extras or Background Actors
Not all roles in commercials require speaking or a central presence. Extras or background actors are often used to fill out scenes, such as customers in a busy restaurant or pedestrians on a city street. While they don’t usually have prominent roles, they contribute to creating realistic settings.
6. Celebrity Endorsers
When famous actors or public figures appear in commercials, they are often referred to as celebrity endorsers. These individuals bring their star power to the brand, leveraging their fame to influence consumer behavior.
- Example: George Clooney in Nespresso commercials or Serena Williams promoting Nike.
7. Character Performers
In some cases, actors in commercials become iconic for playing specific characters that represent the brand. These are often referred to as character performers.
- Example: The actor who plays the Mayhem character in Allstate commercials (Dean Winters) or the Geico Gecko’s voice actor (Jake Wood).
8. Advert Models
When commercials focus heavily on visuals and aesthetics rather than dialogue, actors may be referred to as advert models. This term is often used for actors in beauty, fashion, or lifestyle ads.
What Makes Commercial Acting Unique?
Commercial acting differs from traditional acting in film or theater in a few key ways:
- Condensed Storytelling: Commercials often last 15-60 seconds, requiring actors to convey a message quickly and effectively.
- Product Focus: The goal is to highlight the product or service, often through subtle or overt demonstrations.
- Versatility: Commercial actors must adapt to a wide range of roles, from comedic to emotional to professional.
People who act in commercials are known by various titles, including commercial actors, spokespersons, and even brand ambassadors, depending on their role and association with the brand. While their work may seem brief, their performances are crucial in connecting companies with consumers.
Whether they’re delivering a catchy slogan or silently sipping coffee in the background, these actors bring life and relatability to the advertising world. So, the next time you see a commercial, take a moment to appreciate the talent and effort that goes into every performance!
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