20 TV Plot Twists That Brought Down A Popular Consumer Item

Erin Maxwell
December 14, 2021 1.9K votes 427 voters 45.4K views
Voting Rules
Vote up the brands that were hurt with the placement, vote down the brands that were helped.

When done right, good product placement in a TV show can help a brand connect with an audience in a positive way. When a favorite character is able to find joy in well-known product, it speaks to the audience, pushing them towards purchase. But what happens if embedded marketing goes awry? When a well-known and recognized product is used in a dubious way? What does that say about the product? 

In these shows, brand placement is more than just instant recognition, but became essential to the plot, and not for the better. From being used to commit a crime to causing the death of a beloved character, here are a few brands and products that might have had their name sullied by an unexpected plot twist. 

  • Peloton - 'And Just Like That...'
    1

    Carrie Bradshaw's husband "Mr. Big" dies via heart attack after using the exercise equipment. 

    In a heartfelt portrayal of friendship, love, and self-discovery, And Just Like That... revives the beloved characters from the iconic series, Sex and the City. With a blend of humor and raw emotion, the show delves into the intricacies of life in New York City as Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker), Charlotte York (Kristin Davis), and Miranda Hobbes (Cynthia Nixon) navigate the complexities of middle age. The series has garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for its nuanced exploration of relevant issues. While celebrating the power of female camaraderie, And Just Like That... offers a refreshing perspective on embracing change and growth.
  • George Foreman Grill - 'The Office'
    2

    Michael accidentally cooked his foot after stepping on his George Foreman Grill, which he used to cook bacon bedside. ("I like waking up to the smell of bacon, sue me. And since I don't have a butler, I have to do it myself.")

    Set within the mundane confines of a Scranton-based paper company, this mockumentary-style sitcom delivers a humorous take on the daily grind. The Office boasts an ensemble cast, including the bumbling yet endearing regional manager Michael Scott (Steve Carell), and the quirky sales representative Jim Halpert (John Krasinski). Throughout its nine-season run, the show garnered numerous accolades, including five Primetime Emmy Awards. The series masterfully balances cringe-worthy moments with heartfelt character development, making it a beloved staple in television history. As viewers become invested in the employees' lives, the show's charm lies in finding humor and warmth in the most ordinary situations.
  • Chipotle - 'South Park'
    3

    The fast-casual restaurant was depicted as addictive but a leading cause of people in South Part to defecate blood, thus causing a rush on the as-seen-on-TV cleaning product, Chipotlaway.

    South Park, a satirical animated series, masterfully balances humor and social commentary while pushing the boundaries of television. Creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone bring to life the eccentric residents of a small Colorado town, with notable characters such as the mischievous Eric Cartman (Trey Parker) and the ever-optimistic Stan Marsh (also Trey Parker). The show's unapologetic approach to tackling controversial issues has garnered it numerous accolades, including five Primetime Emmy Awards. Over the course of more than 20 seasons, South Park has captivated audiences with its razor-sharp wit and distinctive animation style, leaving viewers eager for more insightful hilarity.
  • Crock-Pot - 'This Is Us'
    4

    Jack dies in a fire caused by the malfunctioned slow-cooker he was using to make his special Game Day chilli.

    Exploring the intricacies of family dynamics and the passage of time, This Is Us masterfully weaves a tapestry of emotions through its multi-generational narrative. The series, which has garnered numerous awards and nominations, delves into the lives of the Pearson family, unearthing their joys, struggles, and heartaches. As viewers follow the journey of characters like Jack Pearson (Milo Ventimiglia) and his wife Rebecca (Mandy Moore), they are treated to an honest portrayal of complex relationships, with each episode revealing new layers of depth. With its rich storytelling and nuanced performances, This Is Us stands as a testament to the power of human connection.
  • Kenny Rogers Roasters - 'Seinfeld'
    5

    A Kenny Rogers Roasters opens near Jerry and Kramer. The blinking neon sign in combined with the addictive nature of the food causes massive changes in the two men. 

    A quintessential sitcom, Seinfeld explores the amusingly mundane lives of four eccentric New Yorkers navigating through a world filled with unpredictable social encounters. The show features Jerry Seinfeld as a fictionalized version of himself, while George Costanza (Jason Alexander), Elaine Benes (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), and Cosmo Kramer (Michael Richards) round out the core ensemble. With its innovative storytelling techniques, relatable humor, and memorable catchphrases, Seinfeld has garnered numerous accolades, including ten Primetime Emmy Awards. Although the series concluded in 1998, its timeless wit and unparalleled charm continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.
  • Pontiac Aztek - 'Breaking Bad'
    6

    Considered "boring" and "ugly" by its critics, the SUV was viewed as perfect choice for "boring man" Walter White. Prior to the birth of "Heisenberg," the car was meant to represent how pathetic the former science teacher once was. 

    Breaking Bad, a critically acclaimed drama series, masterfully unravels the story of Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. Alongside his former student, Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), they navigate the treacherous world of drug production and distribution. The show skillfully balances intense character development with dark humor, contributing to its numerous accolades, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards. As the narrative progresses, viewers are drawn into the complex moral dilemmas faced by the protagonists, leaving them questioning the limits of their own principles. Breaking Bad's gripping storytelling and unforgettable performances make it a standout in television history.