Apple’s Groundbreaking ‘1984’ Super Bowl Ad: A Look Back 40 Years Later
Apple’s first Macintosh was released 40 years ago, just two days after the iconic ‘1984’ Super Bowl ad. On this day 40 years ago, Apple’s first Macintosh hit the shelves, making waves just two days after a groundbreaking Super Bowl ad introduced it to the world. The ad, titled “1984,” directed by Ridley Scott, became a cultural phenomenon and a pivotal moment for product launches.
Apple’s board of directors’ doubts
Despite its iconic status now, Apple’s Board of Directors initially opposed the ‘1984’ ad. The 60-second spot, inspired by George Orwell’s dystopian novel, featured a hammer-wielding woman liberating minds from a Big Brother-like figure. Board members deemed it the worst commercial ever.
Steve Jobs and Wozniak’s reaction
In an internal meeting, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak were blown away by the ad. Jobs, upon seeing it, exclaimed, “Oh s–t. This is amazing.” Wozniak went a step further, describing it as “better than any science fiction trailer.”
Board’s cold feet
Board member Mike Markkula suggested firing the marketing agency, Chiat/Day, after watching the ad. The board, not impressed, wanted a new agency. Apple CEO John Sculley even contemplated selling off the Super Bowl airtime.
Chiat’s disobedience
Chiat/Day principal Jay Chiat, however, quietly disobeyed orders. Ignoring Sculley’s instructions to sell the airtime, Chiat kept the 60-second slot for the Super Bowl ad.
Woz to the rescue
When Jobs informed Wozniak of the ad’s trouble, Wozniak immediately offered to pay $400,000 out of pocket – half the cost of the ad’s airtime. Fortunately, this gesture wasn’t needed in the end.
The ad that almost didn’t
Chiat’s bold move ultimately played a crucial role in Macintosh’s success. Despite board objections, the ‘1984’ Super Bowl ad aired, kickstarting a 100-day advertising blitz and solidifying Apple’s place in history.
Chiat/Day’s legacy
Chiat/Day continued to handle Apple’s TV advertising until 2014. The ‘1984’ ad, once controversial, is now celebrated as a symbol of innovation and defiance. In the end, the ad that almost didn’t happen became a game-changer, marking the beginning of Apple’s journey into the hearts and homes of millions.
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Apple’s first Macintosh release, it is impossible to overlook the impact of the groundbreaking ‘1984’ Super Bowl ad. Directed by Ridley Scott and inspired by George Orwell’s dystopian novel, the ad took the world by storm and forever changed the landscape of product launches.
Interestingly, despite its iconic status today, Apple’s Board of Directors initially opposed the ad. They considered it the worst commercial ever. However, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, the visionaries behind Apple, were blown away by its brilliance. Jobs famously exclaimed, “Oh s–t. This is amazing,” while Wozniak described it as “better than any science fiction trailer.”
The board’s doubts led to discussions of firing the marketing agency, Chiat/Day, responsible for the ad. Apple CEO John Sculley even contemplated selling off the Super Bowl airtime. However, Chiat/Day principal Jay Chiat quietly disobeyed orders and kept the 60-second slot for the ad.
In a moment of solidarity and belief in the ad’s potential, Wozniak offered to pay half the cost of the ad’s airtime out of his own pocket. Fortunately, this gesture was not needed, as Chiat’s bold move proved to be the right one.
The ‘1984’ Super Bowl ad aired, defying the board’s objections and kickstarting a 100-day advertising blitz that solidified Apple’s place in history. It became a symbol of innovation and defiance, marking the beginning of Apple’s journey into the hearts and homes of millions.
Chiat/Day continued to handle Apple’s TV advertising until 2014, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking campaigns. The ‘1984’ ad, once controversial, is now celebrated as a pivotal moment in advertising history.
As we reflect on the 40th anniversary of the Macintosh and the ‘1984’ Super Bowl ad, it is clear that sometimes the greatest ideas face opposition. However, it is through boldness, disobedience, and unwavering belief that game-changers are born. Apple’s journey is a testament to the power of thinking differently and challenging the status quo.
So, as we look back at that fateful day 40 years ago when the first Macintosh hit the shelves, let us also remember
