In 1996, Pepsi launched a promotion called “Pepsi Stuff”, which allowed customers to collect points from Pepsi products and redeem them for various merchandise. One of the most notable prizes was a Harrier Jet, which could be obtained for 7 million points. Pepsi advertised this promotion through a commercial that became infamous for its unconventional prize.
The Commercial
The commercial features a young man, played by actor Courtney Gaines, who is seen collecting Pepsi points from various products. The ad then shows the young man arriving at a military base, where he presents a cheque for 7 million Pepsi points to the base commander. The commander then hands over the keys to a Harrier Jet to the young man, who takes off into the sky.
The Controversy
The commercial caused controversy because some viewers believed that Pepsi was actually giving away a Harrier Jet. In reality, the jet could not be obtained through Pepsi points since it was a military aircraft that could not be privately owned. Pepsi later clarified that the commercial was meant to be taken as a joke, and that the Harrier Jet was simply a “gag prize” that would not actually be awarded.
The Lawsuit
Despite Pepsi’s clarification, one man named John Leonard filed a lawsuit against the company, claiming that he had collected the required number of Pepsi points and was entitled to a Harrier Jet. The lawsuit was eventually dismissed by a judge, who ruled that the commercial was obviously meant to be a joke and that no reasonable person would believe that Pepsi was actually giving away a military aircraft.
Cultural Impact
The Pepsi Points Jet Commercial has since become a cultural phenomenon, and is often cited as an example of advertising gone wrong. The commercial has been parodied in various forms of media, including television shows, movies, and video games. It has also been referenced in academic papers and court cases as an example of false advertising.
Conclusion
The Pepsi Points Jet Commercial may have caused controversy at the time of its release, but it has since become a cultural touchstone. While the commercial was never meant to be taken seriously, it has left a lasting impact on the world of advertising and popular culture.
