Who is the actor in the OxiClean commercial?
The energetic legacy and new face behind America’s favorite stain-fighter*
(By Carmichael Phillip)
(Photo: KoolShooters | Pexels)
The Original Icon: Billy Mays and the Birth of OxiClean Fame
If you think of OxiClean, you probably picture a loud, energetic man in a blue shirt with a booming voice and distinctive beard—Billy Mays. Mays was the original face of OxiClean, whose enthusiastic infomercials in the late 1990s and 2000s became legendary. His passionate pitch style made stain removal exciting for millions of viewers.
“Hi, Billy Mays here for OxiClean!” is one of the most recognized catchphrases in direct response advertising.
Billy Mays not only sold a product, he sold an experience, turning a cleaning solution into a household name. Unfortunately, Mays passed away in 2009, leaving a big void in OxiClean’s marketing.
Who Took Over After Billy Mays?
After Mays’ death, OxiClean needed someone who could carry the torch. The brand eventually chose Anthony “Sully” Sullivan, Mays’ longtime business partner, and co-star on the Discovery Channel series PitchMen. Sullivan had appeared alongside Mays in many infomercials and knew the product—and the audience—intimately.
“Billy and I built this brand together,” Sullivan said in an interview. “I felt a responsibility to keep the energy alive, but also bring my own style to it.”
Sullivan’s approach to pitching OxiClean brought a fresh yet respectful energy, honoring Mays’ legacy while connecting with new generations.
Meet Anthony ‘Sully’ Sullivan: A Natural Successor
Anthony Sullivan, originally from Devon, England, came to the U.S. in the early 1990s and made a name for himself in the infomercial world. He met Billy Mays at a trade show, and the two quickly formed a friendship and business partnership.
Their chemistry was highlighted on PitchMen, where they developed and marketed various products together.
“Sully was the only person who could carry the torch after Billy,” said Thom Beers, producer of PitchMen. “He respected the brand and understood the performance.”
Sullivan’s smooth, convincing style contrasted with Mays’ loud enthusiasm but was equally effective.
The Style Shift: From Booming to Engaging
Billy Mays was famous for his loud, passionate delivery—almost shouting to get attention. In contrast, Sullivan’s style is calmer, more relatable, yet just as convincing.
“I always believed enthusiasm doesn’t have to be volume-based,” Sullivan explained. “My style is passionate but clear and relatable.”
OxiClean commercials today still feature energetic demonstrations and strong testimonials, but with a modern, polished presentation that appeals to today’s viewers.
Audience Reception: Honoring the Past, Welcoming the Future
When Sullivan took over, fans of Mays were initially skeptical. However, many have come to appreciate his genuine respect and authenticity.
One YouTube viewer wrote, “I was hesitant at first, but Sully won me over. He clearly loved Billy and treats the brand with care.”
Another fan tweeted, “He’s like the calm yin to Billy’s energetic yang. It works.”
By balancing respect for the past with a new approach, Sullivan helped keep OxiClean relevant.
Inside the Commercials: What Makes Them Work?
OxiClean commercials are masterclasses in direct response marketing. They visually demonstrate the product’s power with before-and-after shots, clear instructions, and enthusiastic testimonials.
Marketing expert Joanna Ramos says,
“You know exactly what the product does in 30 seconds. That’s the brilliance of it. Both Billy and Sully mastered that communication style.”
The ads also emphasize affordability, safety, and versatility, which appeals to budget-conscious and family audiences.
Beyond the Commercials: Sully’s Broader Influence
Anthony Sullivan expanded his career beyond OxiClean. He is CEO of Sullivan Productions, creating direct response campaigns for many products, including Swivel Sweeper and Smart Mop.
“OxiClean changed my life,” Sullivan remarked. “It’s more than a brand—it’s part of my journey and Billy’s legacy.”
His connection to the product and the industry runs deep, making him a respected figure in infomercial history.
Where is Anthony Sullivan Now?
Though Sullivan still appears occasionally in OxiClean commercials, he has largely moved behind the scenes. Recently, he’s focused on sustainable farming and started MontKush, an organic CBD brand in Vermont.
“The farm is my new passion,” Sullivan shared. “But I’ll always be grateful to OxiClean—it gave me a platform, a voice, and a family of loyal viewers.”
This transition reveals a personal side of Sullivan, showing his commitment beyond sales pitches.
Billy Mays and Sully: A Lasting Partnership
The friendship and professional bond between Mays and Sullivan was central to OxiClean’s success. Their dynamic was captured in PitchMen, showing the teamwork behind the scenes.
After Mays passed, Sullivan paid tribute:
“Billy wasn’t just my partner—he was my best friend. I’ll never stop honoring him.”
Their story adds emotional depth to the brand and highlights the human side of advertising.
Legacy of a Product and the People Behind It
OxiClean is more than a cleaning product; it’s a cultural icon thanks to Billy Mays and Anthony Sullivan. Mays gave the brand its voice; Sullivan keeps it relevant.
Together, they changed how consumers view household cleaning and demonstrated the power of authentic, passionate marketing.
“It’s easy to sell something once,” Sullivan noted. “But to be welcomed into people’s homes for decades? That takes honesty and heart.”
Next time you see OxiClean on the shelf or catch a commercial, remember the voices and faces that made cleaning exciting again.
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