Who Is the PG Tips Advert Man?
The PG Tips advert man refers to the Monkey character, a cheeky, knitted sock puppet, who starred alongside comedian Johnny Vegas in a series of humorous tea advertisements. This advertising campaign, launched in 2007, played a crucial role in revitalizing PG Tips’ brand image and making it a household favorite once again.
- Featured a talking Monkey puppetPaired with comedian Johnny Vegas for a hilarious duoRevived PG Tips’ advertising after the famous chimpanzee campaign
This article explores the history of PG Tips advertising, the rise of Monkey and Johnny Vegas, and the cultural impact of the campaign.
The History of PG Tips Advertising
PG Tips has a long history of memorable advertising campaigns, making it one of the most recognized tea brands in the UK.
The Chimpanzee Era (1956–2002)
- PG Tips’ early ads featured the “Tipps family”, a group of trained chimpanzees dressed as humans.This campaign ran for over 40 years, making it one of the longest-running ad campaigns in history.The chimps performed in tea-drinking scenarios, with famous catchphrases like “Do you know the piano’s on my foot?” – “You hum it, son, and I’ll play it.”
This campaign was eventually discontinued in 2002 due to growing concerns over animal rights.
The Transition Period (2002–2007)
- After retiring the chimpanzees, PG Tips introduced the “T-Birds”, a series of claymation birds animated by Aardman Studios.This campaign failed to connect with audiences, leading PG Tips to search for a new mascot.
Recognizing the need for a fresh approach, PG Tips turned to a beloved character from another brand—Monkey.
The Rise of Monkey & Johnny Vegas (2007–2024)
The PG Tips Monkey was originally created for ITV Digital, a now-defunct digital TV provider.
- Monkey debuted in ITV Digital ads in 2001, paired with comedian Johnny Vegas.Their hilarious interactions made them a cult favorite.After ITV Digital collapsed in 2002, the rights to Monkey became available.
PG Tips revived Monkey in 2007, reuniting him with Johnny Vegas, and launching one of the most beloved British advertising campaigns of all time!
Why the Monkey & Johnny Vegas Campaign Was So Successful
- British Humor: Monkey’s cheeky personality and Johnny Vegas’ gruff yet lovable character made for the perfect comedic duo.Memorable Catchphrases: Ads featured witty one-liners and relatable tea-drinking scenarios.Nostalgia & Modernization: Reviving Monkey pleased older audiences, while introducing him to a new generation.
This campaign made PG Tips the UK’s most talked-about tea brand once again!
Most Memorable PG Tips Monkey Adverts
Here are some of the best PG Tips Monkey ads that fans still love today:
The First Monkey Ad (2007)
- Monkey and Johnny Vegas sit at a kitchen table, sipping tea and arguing about the perfect brew.Introduced the modern PG Tips branding, replacing the T-Birds.
“Digger” Ad (2010)
- Monkey dressed as a construction worker, controlling a giant digger while Vegas panics.Showcases PG Tips’ strong tea flavor with the tagline: “It’s the taste!”
“Monopoly” Ad (2012)
- Monkey and Johnny Vegas play Monopoly, but Vegas loses his cool when Monkey beats him.A relatable, funny take on game night frustrations.
“The Return” Ad (2014)
- Monkey disappears for a while, making a dramatic “comeback” in a Hollywood-style trailer.Features celebrity cameos and action-packed scenes.
These ads helped PG Tips increase sales and brand loyalty, proving that humor + tea = success!
The End of the Monkey Campaign (2024)
On May 1, 2024, PG Tips officially retired Monkey, stating he was enjoying a “well-earned retirement.”
- Fans expressed nostalgia over the character’s departure.PG Tips hinted at new branding strategies for the future.Merchandise and old adverts remain popular among collectors and tea lovers.
Though Monkey is retired, his impact on British advertising history is undeniable!
Legacy of the PG Tips Advert Man
The Monkey & Johnny Vegas campaign left a lasting impact on British culture:
- Brought humor back to advertising in an engaging, relatable way.Revitalized the PG Tips brand after years of declining success.Influenced modern marketing, proving that mascots and humor can drive brand loyalty.
Today, PG Tips is still one of the UK’s top tea brands, thanks in part to Monkey’s unforgettable charm!
Conclusion
- The Monkey & Johnny Vegas campaign revitalized PG Tips, making it one of the UK’s most beloved tea brands.Though Monkey retired in 2024, his legacy in British advertising and pop culture lives on.Fans continue to enjoy the hilarious adverts, proving that great marketing stands the test of time.
Do you miss monkeys? Share your favorite PG Tips advert in the comments!
FAQs
1. Who was the PG Tips advert man?
The PG Tips advert man refers to Monkey, a sock puppet character, and his partner, comedian Johnny Vegas.
2. What happened to the PG Tips Monkey?
PG Tips retired Monkey in 2024, marking the end of a successful 17-year ad campaign.
3. Why was Monkey so popular?
- Funny & relatable tea-drinking scenariosChemistry between Monkey & Johnny VegasCatchy one-liners and British humor
4. What were the best PG Tips Monkey adverts?
- The Digger AdThe Monopoly Game AdThe Return Trailer
5. Can I still watch the old PG Tips Monkey ads?
Yes! Many of them are available on YouTube and other video platforms.