CBS Sunday Morning, which often covers the pop culture beat, has a delightful segment (online) devoted to friendly trade characters – their makers and remakers. From Speedy Alka Seltzer to Tony The Tiger to Mr. Peanut (now voiced by Robert Downey Jr., yes that one) thrown in. This clip is worth a look and listen.
Then see more characters here and here. And here’s a vintage Studio 360 podcast about the Big Boy brand. (That’s J.J. Sadelmaier holding his prized Speedy clock.)
About Steven Heller
Steven Heller is the co-chair of the SVA MFA Designer /Designer as Author + Entrepreneur program, writes frequently for Wired and Design Observer. He is also the author of over 170 books on design and visual culture. He received the 1999 AIGA Medal and is the 2011 recipient of the Smithsonian National Design Award.View all posts by Steven Heller →