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James Doohan, famous for his role as chief engineer Scotty on the original Star Trek series, surprised fans when he appeared in a 1968 Toyota Corona commercial. The minute-long video showcases a different side of the actor, as he delivers straightforward information about the vehicle without any Star Trek references. While the commercial is a departure from the flashy ads we see today, it provides a glimpse into a bygone era when Toyota was still establishing itself in the US market. Doohan’s involvement in the commercial sheds light on his versatile acting career outside of his iconic role on the beloved sci-fi series. Let’s delve deeper into this unique piece of pop culture history and explore the significance of Doohan’s pitch for Toyota.
The 1968 Toyota Corona commercial featuring James Doohan was a surprising discovery for fans of the actor. This unexpected crossover between popular culture and advertising showcases Doohan’s versatility as an actor, demonstrating his ability to step into different roles beyond his iconic portrayal of Scotty.
During the late 1960s, Toyota was still working to establish itself in the US market. The Corona, featured in the commercial, was not a high-performance vehicle like we see today. With the original Star Trek series struggling in ratings during its initial run, it was a strategic decision for Toyota to have Doohan promote the Corona without any overt references to the show.
Doohan’s appearance in the Toyota commercial marked his foray into the world of advertising. While his acting career primarily revolved around his role in Star Trek, this commercial provided a new platform for him to showcase his talents to a broader audience outside of the sci-fi genre.
James Doohan’s legacy extends beyond his portrayal of Scotty on Star Trek. His participation in the 1968 Toyota Corona commercial highlights his versatility as an actor and his willingness to take on diverse roles throughout his career. Despite his passing in 2005, Doohan’s impact on popular culture continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
The enduring popularity of the Star Trek franchise has kept the memory of James Doohan alive for generations of fans. While his role as Scotty remains his most iconic, his unexpected pitch for Toyota serves as a reminder of his versatility and the lasting impact he had on popular culture.