Many people find it irritating when advertisements interrupt their favorite movies or TV shows. While it’s true that ads can often be boring, a few have managed to become iconic. One such example is the annual Coca-Cola commercial that airs before New Year’s—it’s eagerly awaited by many as a symbol of the festive season and holiday cheer.
Another commercial that gained a cult following is Geico’s “The Caveman,” which first aired in 2004. Featuring a caveman character to promote car insurance, the campaign became so popular that it helped justify Geico’s massive \$600 million ad spending in 2006. The Martin Agency, known for its humorous take on advertising, created the campaign. Their goal was to make people laugh—a near-universal reaction—especially since car insurance usually isn’t something people are excited about.
Steve Bassett, the creative director, said they knew the campaign had potential, but its overwhelming success exceeded all expectations.
The caveman was portrayed by actor and producer John Lehr, whose wild hair, furrowed brow, and Neanderthal look were all thanks to extensive makeup. In real life, Lehr is a good-looking man and a father of two.
Before finding fame with the commercial, Lehr was a teacher at Kilmer Elementary in Chicago and performed improv shows in the evenings. His big break came when a FOX scout noticed his talent and offered him a \$15,000 holding deal with NBC.
That opportunity opened the door to Hollywood. Lehr went on to appear in a 1996 episode of *Friends* and later starred in 22 episodes of *Jesse* with Christina Applegate, whom he also worked with in *The Sweetest Thing*.
When he auditioned for *The Caveman* role in 2004, Lehr didn’t expect much. “It was perfect for someone like me—a character actor who could make good money and stay anonymous,” he said in an interview.
The commercial launched his career to new heights. Lehr even attended the Oscars in full caveman makeup, walking the red carpet with a model. “Celebrities like Gary Busey and Jon Voight were asking to take pictures with me,” he told *Forbes*. He recalled a humorous moment when a glamorous actress flirted with him despite knowing he wasn’t really a caveman. “She said, ‘I don’t care. Let’s have sex,’” he recounted.
Today, Lehr runs his own production company, Howler Monkey Productions. He continues to work as both an actor and producer and enjoys a happy family life with his wife, Jennifer, and their two children.
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