Highwayman
Extraordinary Member
Microsoft finds friend in Windows 7 ad push: The 'Family Guy'
John Cook on Tuesday, October 13, 2009, 6:45pm PDT
Microsoft, meet the "Family Guy." Looking to drum up sales for the upcoming release of Windows 7, Microsoft today announced that it is working with "Family Guy" creator Seth MacFarlane on an unique television event that will air Nov. 8 on Fox. The variety show -- featuring MacFarlane and Family Guy co-star Alex Borstein -- will be presented commercial free by Microsoft in the style of the old Texaco Star Theater.
But the program will go one step further, with Microsoft's ad agencies working with MacFarlane and crew to feature "unique Windows 7-branded programming that blends seamlessly with show content," Link Removed due to 404 Error.
"We're working with FOX on innovative brand integrations that will show how the power and simplicity of Windows 7 can enhance the content FOX viewers love," said Gayle Troberman, general manager of consumer engagement and advertising at Microsoft in the release. "We have simplified the PC with Windows 7, and together with FOX, we're simplifying entertainment."
The program -- tentatively titled "Family Guy Presents: Seth & Alex's Almost Live Comedy Show" -- will air two weeks after the Windows 7 debut on Oct. 22. The 30-minute show will include live performances, original animations, surprise celebrity guests and more.
AdAge has more details, including additional comments from Troberman who notes that the Windows 7 launch is one of the "largest consumer-advertising investments the company has made."
The partnership actually goes deeper than the 30-minute TV show, with Fox and Microsoft also agreeing to work together on a 12-week college tour that includes Windows 7 demos and Fox-sponsored outdoor movie nights hosted by stars from "Family Guy.".
MacFarlane is a funny dude, but we're not sure he can beat the comedic value of Microsoft's other Windows 7 promotion.
John Cook on Tuesday, October 13, 2009, 6:45pm PDT
Microsoft, meet the "Family Guy." Looking to drum up sales for the upcoming release of Windows 7, Microsoft today announced that it is working with "Family Guy" creator Seth MacFarlane on an unique television event that will air Nov. 8 on Fox. The variety show -- featuring MacFarlane and Family Guy co-star Alex Borstein -- will be presented commercial free by Microsoft in the style of the old Texaco Star Theater.
But the program will go one step further, with Microsoft's ad agencies working with MacFarlane and crew to feature "unique Windows 7-branded programming that blends seamlessly with show content," Link Removed due to 404 Error.
"We're working with FOX on innovative brand integrations that will show how the power and simplicity of Windows 7 can enhance the content FOX viewers love," said Gayle Troberman, general manager of consumer engagement and advertising at Microsoft in the release. "We have simplified the PC with Windows 7, and together with FOX, we're simplifying entertainment."
The program -- tentatively titled "Family Guy Presents: Seth & Alex's Almost Live Comedy Show" -- will air two weeks after the Windows 7 debut on Oct. 22. The 30-minute show will include live performances, original animations, surprise celebrity guests and more.
AdAge has more details, including additional comments from Troberman who notes that the Windows 7 launch is one of the "largest consumer-advertising investments the company has made."
The partnership actually goes deeper than the 30-minute TV show, with Fox and Microsoft also agreeing to work together on a 12-week college tour that includes Windows 7 demos and Fox-sponsored outdoor movie nights hosted by stars from "Family Guy.".
MacFarlane is a funny dude, but we're not sure he can beat the comedic value of Microsoft's other Windows 7 promotion.
Love Family Guy! 
