For many years, Dr. Pepper has featured memorable characters in its advertising campaigns who leave a lasting impression on viewers.
The company has featured a dynamic cast of personalities, from actors to athletes to musicians, all contributing to the brand’s unique identity.
Here is a list of Dr. Pepper’s commercial cast that have highlighted the brand’s widespread popularity.
1. David Naughton
Among the most recognizable faces in Dr. Pepper commercials is David Naughton.
He became well-known as the fitting “Dr. Pepper Guy” in the late 1970s and early 1980s, featured in the renowned I’m a Pepper commercials.
With his positive demeanor and catchy songs, Naughton contributed to creating Dr. Pepper’s reputation as a young brand.
2. Donna Loren
Donna Lauren was one of the most prominent people in Dr. Pepper’s 1960s commercial history. She was known as the Dr. Pepper girl in multiple commercials.
Some of the company’s advertisements she was featured in include:
- Dr. Pepper – Tennis 1964
- Dr. Pepper – Horseback Riding 1964
- Dr. Pepper – Simplicity 1965
Her representations in these ads contributed to Dr. Pepper’s rise in popularity among younger viewers.
3. Gene Simmons
Gene Simmons starred in the 2009 Dr. Pepper Cherry commercial and the Dr. Pepper: Trust Me, I’m a Doctor campaign. He was also featured in the 2010 Dr. Pepper Super Bowl ad.
Each commercial strengthened the brand’s iconic image and made an emotional connection with viewers.
He has also appeared in commercials for companies such as TABTouch, an Australian sports betting and phone company app.
These commercials highlighted Simmons’ alluring rock star persona, love for music, and youth culture.
4. Justin Guarini
Over the years, Justin Guarini played Lil’ Sweet in several Dr. Pepper ads. Notable ones include:
- Dr. Pepper Laundry commercial, in which Lil’ Sweet spreads happiness in a work environment
- Dr. Pepper’s Birthday Party commercial, in which he surprised partygoers with Dr. Pepper.
- Dr. Pepper Sweetener commercial, in which he sings about the sweetness of Dr. Pepper.
Every commercial featured Guarini’s contagious energy, adding a lighthearted touch to the company’s marketing.
5. Brian Bosworth
Brian Bosworth began appearing in the Dr. Pepper advertisements series Fansville in 2018.
The company’s marketing campaign gained a unique edge from the former NFL linebacker’s tough image and sense of humor.
He was a memorable pitchman, especially among sports fans, because of his ability to mix humor with his tough persona.
6. Jim Connor
The gifted Jim Connor’s character, Larry Culpepper, quickly rose to fame in the Dr. Pepper commercial world. Fans everywhere could not help but be captivated by Larry’s distinct charm on screen.
He flawlessly portrayed the essence of a sports fan in the adored Fansville series, where his enthusiasm for college football and quirky demeanor won over viewers.
His performances in the company’s commercials were well-received by fans and brought him widespread recognition.
7. Michael Jackson and his brothers
In the 1970s, Michael Jackson and his brothers were featured in the company’s Be a Pepper campaign. They also recorded a song called Be a Pepper, for the Dr. Pepper commercial.
Michael Jackson was also featured in Pepsi’s advertising campaigns. He was chosen to represent the Pepsi New Generation commercials, which celebrated the youth’s creativity and energy.
These commercials were legendary thanks to the late singer’s amazing dance abilities and signature flair, solidifying his place in mainstream culture.
8. Reba McEntire
Well-known country music singer and gifted actress Reba McEntire has also succeeded in commercials.
In the early 2000s, she collaborated with fellow country music star LeAnn Rimes on an influential Be You Dr. Pepper commercial.
In addition, Reba used her fame to promote KFC in several commercials. She gave her character a new perspective by dressing as Colonel Sanders and infused it with her distinct warmth and wit.
9. Muddy Waters
The legendary bluesman Muddy Waters, who is well known for hits like Hoochie Coochie Man and Mannish Boy, once made an unexpected turn in the radio commercial industry.
Muddy Waters recorded a vintage radio ad for Dr Pepper in the 1950s, showcasing his distinctive voice and blues style to promote the soft drink.
His song Mannish Boy was also featured in a 1980s Levi’s 501 jeans commercial, adding a bluesy vibe to the ad. The song has also been featured in multiple Levi’s commercials.