Here’s a look at some of the funniest TV commercials that have left audiences laughing and have become iconic in their own right.
- The Budweiser “Wassup” Campaign (2000)
This classic commercial features a group of friends excitedly greeting each other with a hilariously exaggerated “Wassup!” The infectious energy and ridiculousness made it an instant classic, leading to catchphrases that permeated pop culture and inspired countless parodies.
- E-Trade Baby (2008)
E-Trade’s commercials featuring a talking baby in a business suit quickly became fan favorites. The juxtaposition of a baby discussing stocks and investments while displaying surprisingly sophisticated behavior is both absurd and comical. The catchphrase “I’m an E-Trade baby!” cemented its place in advertising history.
- Old Spice “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” (2010)
This commercial features actor Isaiah Mustafa delivering a monologue directly to the camera while achieving increasingly absurd scenarios. With its over-the-top masculinity, nonsensical humor, and surreal visual transitions, the ad was a viral sensation and led to multiple sequels.
- Super Bowl XLVIII: “I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke” (1971)
While nostalgia plays a strong role in this ad, its sheer joyfulness and unity theme make it comical in the context of today’s advertising. The imagery of people from diverse backgrounds coming together to share a Coke, singing a catchy tune, elicits both smiles and laughter, showcasing the absurdity of a global unity through soda.
- Geico “Hump Day” (2013)
In this memorable Geico commercial, a talking camel walks into an office, excitedly announcing that it’s “Hump Day!” The sheer exuberance of the camel, along with the reactions of the bewildered office workers, creates a humorous scenario that became an internet sensation and popularized the phrase.
- Doritos “Crystal Ball” (2011)
In this Super Bowl ad, a man sees the future with a crystal ball only to discover an opportunity for a snack. The ridiculousness of the predictions—like someone actually being attacked by a bag of Doritos—blends unexpected humor with the irresistible temptation of chips, leaving viewers in stitches.
- M&M’s “They’re Just Not That Into You” (2006)
This ad features the anthropomorphized M&M characters confronting situations centered around love and rejection. One M&M, frustrated by being unwrapped, laments, “They’re just not that into you,” leading to comically relatable moments that humorously depict the struggles of romance.
- Taco Bell “Live Mas” with the Chihuahua (2000)
The lovable Chihuahua became the face of Taco Bell with the simple yet funny catchphrase “¡Yo quiero Taco Bell!” The quirky concept of a small dog promoting fast food while embodying a sense of adventure made the commercials irresistibly charming and amusing.
- Skittles “Touch the Rainbow” Series (2002 – Present)
These quirky commercials feature surreal scenarios where characters interact with Skittles in bizarre and humorous ways. From a man transforming another’s arm into Skittles to oddball situations involving candy, the absurdity of these ads makes them endlessly entertaining.
- Nike “Dream Crazy” Featuring Colin Kaepernick (2018)
While this ad takes a strong social stance, the humor in it sees humor in the absurdity of dreams. The unexpected comedic moments intertwining with serious themes produced a blend of laughter and inspiration, ensuring that it resonates with audiences on multiple levels.
Conclusion
The funniest TV commercials often skillfully blend humor with creativity, using clever writing, memorable characters, and absurd scenarios to capture viewers’ attention. From classic jingles to memorable catchphrases, these ads have left an indelible mark on pop culture, proving that laughter can be a powerful tool in advertising. Whether you’re reminiscing about old favorites or discovering new gems, these commercials are sure to bring a smile to your face!
