The Big Sell

Why does David Hasselhoff drink Coke on America’s Got Talent? Why are the contestants on Project Runway making couture out of car parts? (Frankly, ick.) NPR’s Neda Ulaby examines the next step in product placement–product integration. But here’s my question–is this idea really that new? I remember the days when stars hawked products on live tv in between segments, and some DVDs of old time tv include the original commercials (with the actors–try out the Dick van Dyke Show DVDs which feature Rob and Laura in some Cheer Commercial spots).