There are TV commercials, there is product placement, and then there is the hybrid ad.
As I learned from my time behind the lines with Nielsen, a “hybrid ad” seamlessly walks the lines that criss-cross among traditional advertising, old-fashioned sponsorship and subtle product placements. The seamlessness is intentional — you’re meant to think it’s still part of the show, and therefore not change the channel or otherwise turn your attention away from the TV.
During the Spike TV tribute to Eddie Murphy, we saw a glimpse of young comedian Tone Bell checking in at various comedy venues around Los Angeles — Venice Underground Comedy, Mi Westside Comedy Theater and the Hollywood Improv. All while Bell drives a Dodge Dart.
Roll the clip!