Who is replacing the Jardiance lady?
A deep dive into the new face of Jardiance’s advertising campaign
(By Carmichael Phillip)
If you’ve recently tuned into television or streaming platforms, you might have noticed a shift in the Jardiance commercial landscape. The once-ubiquitous Deanna Colón, known for her energetic and catchy “lowering my A1C” jingle, has been replaced by a new face. But who is this new actress, and what led to the change?
The Rise of Deanna Colón
Deanna Colón became a household name in 2023 with her vibrant portrayal in the Jardiance commercial. A singer, songwriter, and vocal coach, Colón’s performance was characterized by her upbeat demeanor and catchy tune, which quickly became an earworm for many viewers. Her portrayal resonated with audiences, especially those managing Type 2 diabetes, as she embodied positivity and empowerment.
However, despite the commercial’s popularity, Colón faced significant online criticism. Some viewers expressed discomfort with her portrayal, citing concerns over body image and the representation of diabetics. This backlash led to discussions about the portrayal of individuals with diabetes in media and advertising.
reddit.com
Enter the New Face: Rachel Stutt
In 2024, Jardiance introduced a new actress, Rachel Stutt, to front their advertising campaign. Stutt’s portrayal marked a departure from Colón’s energetic performance, opting for a more subdued and realistic depiction of a woman managing Type 2 diabetes. This change was met with mixed reactions from the audience.
Some viewers appreciated the shift, feeling that Stutt’s portrayal was more relatable and grounded. However, others missed Colón’s infectious energy and the memorable jingle that accompanied her performance. The debate highlighted the challenges advertisers face in balancing authenticity with entertainment value.
The Impact of the Change
The replacement of Colón with Stutt sparked conversations about representation and the portrayal of individuals with diabetes in media. While some applauded the move for its authenticity, others felt it lacked the charm and memorability of the original commercial. This shift also prompted discussions about the role of advertising in shaping public perceptions of health and wellness.
Furthermore, the change led to increased scrutiny of the pharmaceutical industry’s advertising strategies. Consumers began to question the motives behind such portrayals and the impact they have on public understanding of medical conditions.
Audience Reactions and Critiques
The audience’s response to the new Jardiance commercial was varied. Some viewers expressed appreciation for the more realistic portrayal, feeling it resonated better with their experiences. Others, however, missed the catchy tune and high-energy performance that Colón brought to the campaign.
Discussions on platforms like Reddit revealed a mix of sentiments. One user commented, “I prefer the happy, singing lady to that creepy grinning turtle I saw tonight,” referring to the new commercial featuring a turtle mascot. Another noted, “The new commercial is a cartoon featuring a tortoise who had a permanent grin.” These comments underscore the diverse reactions to the change and the challenges advertisers face in meeting audience expectations.
The Role of Mascots in Advertising
In response to the varied reactions, Jardiance introduced a new mascot—a turtle character—to front their advertising campaign. This move aimed to create a more universally appealing and memorable representation of the brand.
The turtle mascot quickly gained popularity, with viewers appreciating its quirky and endearing qualities. This shift highlights the growing trend of using animated characters in advertising to convey messages in a more engaging and less controversial manner.
Conclusion
The transition from Deanna Colón to Rachel Stutt in the Jardiance commercial reflects broader trends in advertising, where authenticity and representation are increasingly prioritized. While the change sparked varied reactions, it underscores the importance of aligning brand messaging with audience expectations and sensitivities.
As the pharmaceutical industry continues to navigate the complexities of advertising, the Jardiance campaign serves as a case study in balancing creativity, authenticity, and audience engagement.