| Piece | Maytag Repairman | |
|---|---|---|
| Year | 1995 | |
| Condition | C -10 | |
| Description | 5 5/8" porcelain | |
| Company | Maytag Co. |
This fine porcelain interpretation of the Maytag Repairman features the face of Gordon Jump, the actor who has portrayed the Maytag repairman for past decade.
The year 1992 marked this advertising character's 25th anniversary, making it the longest-running commercial campaign in television history. And he's just as lonely as ever, leaning his chin on his elbow, and wearing his crisp and clean blue uniform with a red bowtie and a blue cap. His grey socks are peeking out from under the hem of his trousers, and the detail on this piece is so fine that you can even see -- and feel -- the laces on his work shoes!
The Story of the Maytag Repairman: the Lonely Guy
The character was originally created in 1967 by Leo Burnett, the well-known advertising company responsible for so many of today's familiar advertising faces. The agency contacted Hollywood casting agents and asked for someone who could not only look like a repairman, but who could also speak with authority. Noted comedian Phil Silvers applied for the part, but an actor named Jesse White was chosen because of his "sad, puppy dog expression." Although Gordon Jump (also known for his part in the TV series "WKRP in Cincinatti") now portrays the lonely repairman, White is still active in the company behind the scenes.
