Unless you are an older Generation Xer or a Baby Boomer, you would most likely have no idea who Rula Lenska is.
Advertising research and learning on celebrities in advertising were probably limited at that time. Would an unknown in North America posing as a celebrity promoting hair products good for the brand or not?
The exotic accent and lack of awareness created enough intrigue that Who is Rula Lenska became a running joke on the Johnny Carson show as well as a question raised by many who saw the ads at that time. So why did the sponsor drop her on the basis of not being well known in the Americas despite strong word of mouth?
Many of us have seen learning about how the celebrity in advertising works best when he or she is recognized and fits with the brand. But how about someone who poses as a celebrity, specially with such great big hair and lots of intrigue? Something to ponder upon as you watch some of those fun 70's ads.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuwuG7q5V2U
