Infomercials have slowly been falling out of favor in the last decade or so. As people are able to do their own research on products and the internet has made information more readily available, people aren’t relying on infomercials as much as they would before. In fact, 54% of Americans say they don’t pay attention to commercials at all. However, at one point in time, infomercials were a driving force behind some of the biggest products. Here is a look at six iconic products that created infomercial millionaires.
1. The George Foreman Grill: Revolutionizing Kitchens Everywhere
Launched in 1994, the George Foreman Grill became a household name with its promise of quick and healthy cooking. Marketed as the “Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine,” it resonated with health-conscious consumers worldwide. Endorsed by boxing legend George Foreman, the grill’s appeal skyrocketed thanks to his enthusiastic and relatable persona. The product has sold over 100 million units worldwide. During the product’s peak, George Foreman was earning 40% of the profits earned, which equated to about $4.5 million per month. He raked in well over $200 million payday from grill sales. The grill’s compact design and ability to drain fat changed how people cooked, especially in small kitchens. Its legacy lives on as a symbol of infomercial success.
2. ThighMaster: The Fitness Craze That Swept the Nation
The ThighMaster, made famous by actress Suzanne Somers, became one of the most recognizable fitness products of the 1990s. Promising toned thighs and easy home workouts, it targeted fitness enthusiasts and casual exercisers alike. The compact and portable design made it appealing for those without access to a gym. Backed by catchy commercials featuring Suzanne Somers, the product sold over $100 million worth of units within its first few years. Somers and her husband Alan Hamel stated that they stopped counting how many ThighMasters they’d sold after 10 million, but they suspect it is probably close to 15 million now. Overall, it’s earned her $300 million+.
3. OxiClean: The Stain Fighter That Dominated Laundry Rooms
OxiClean revolutionized cleaning with its versatile, oxygen-based stain-fighting formula. Its success is largely attributed to the late Billy Mays, whose energetic infomercials made the product a sensation. At the time of his death in 2009, Mays had an estimated net worth of $10 million. After Billy Mays became the face of OxiClean in 2000, the product was catapulted into success. In 2001, OxiClean earned $245 million and was projected to hit $330 million the following year. Demonstrations showing OxiClean removing stubborn stains from carpets, clothing, and more captivated audiences. The product’s non-toxic and environmentally friendly ingredients further boosted its popularity among eco-conscious consumers. OxiClean generated millions in revenue almost immediately, becoming a must-have item in households across the globe. Its success led to the expansion of the brand into an entire line of cleaning products.
4. Snuggie: The Blanket with Sleeves That Went Viral
The Snuggie, often dubbed “the blanket with sleeves,” turned a simple idea into a multi-million-dollar empire. Its humorous and quirky infomercials caught viewers’ attention, making it a viral hit in the late 2000s. Consumers loved the practicality of staying warm while keeping their hands free for activities like reading or using remote controls. Despite initial skepticism, Snuggie sales exceeded $500 million, proving the power of creative marketing. It became a pop culture phenomenon, with parodies and fan-made videos adding to its appeal. The Snuggie’s success showcased the potential of blending practicality with humor.
5. ShamWow: The Super-Absorbent Towel That Took Over TV
ShamWow, a highly absorbent cleaning towel, gained fame through infomercials starring the charismatic Vince Offer. Demonstrations of the towel soaking up massive amounts of liquid left viewers in awe. Its durability and ability to clean virtually any surface appealed to households and businesses alike. The product’s slogan, “You’ll say wow every time,” became instantly recognizable, driving its sales to millions within weeks. ShamWow’s success spawned variations like the Slap Chop, further solidifying Vince Offer’s status as an infomercial legend. Despite both products taking off in the infomercial space, Offer’s net worth is only estimated to be around $1 million. However, he still stands among the other infomercial millionaires with a successful product or two under his belt.
6. The Bowflex: Redefining Home Fitness
Bowflex brought gym-quality workouts to homes with its innovative resistance-based design. Launched in the 1980s, the Bowflex machine gained massive popularity through infomercials highlighting its effectiveness and versatility. Unlike traditional home equipment, Bowflex promised a full-body workout in just 20 minutes a day. Its sleek design and promise of visible results appealed to fitness enthusiasts seeking convenience. By 2005, Bowflex had helped its parent company, Nautilus, earn over $580 million in annual revenue. That said, the company hit some financial trouble in 2023 and was looking at bankruptcy before being bought by Johnson Health Tech Retail, Inc. in April 2024. While it may have fallen from grace, it still made millions during its time on television infomercials.
Turning Ideas Into Empires
With the right marketing (and the right timing), every product can have its time in the spotlight. Whether it’s a simple product that will help you clean up or something to get you in shape, each of these items created infomercial millionaires. Their success stories highlight the power of captivating pitches, relatable personalities, and products that solve everyday problems.
What is one infomercial you remember? Have you ever wondered how much it made?
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