Jack Klugman’s Enduring Legacy in Commercials and Endorsements – A Treat for Quincy Fans!

For seven seasons, we welcomed Dr. R. Quincy into our homes, watching him meticulously unravel mysteries, champion the underdog, and fight for justice. Jack Klugman, the brilliant actor who brought Dr. Quincy to life, carved out a truly unique and beloved character that resonated deeply with millions. His portrayal was more than just acting; it was an embodiment of integrity, a keen mind, and a voice that you could trust implicitly.

It’s precisely this deep-seated trust and his undeniable “everyman” appeal, honed over his long-standing career, particularly through the unwavering conviction of Dr. Quincy, that made Jack Klugman a truly magnetic figure. So, it’s no surprise that through the years, often concurrently with or following his most famous roles, he was also a familiar and trusted face in countless commercials and print ads. For those of us who spent countless hours with Quincy at the L.A. County Coroner’s office, rediscovering these commercials is an absolute treat – a chance to see Jack Klugman, still embodying that direct, honest, and sometimes wonderfully exasperated persona we all adored, but now selling everyday items!

Let’s take a chronological trip down memory lane and explore some lesser-known facts from his commercial career, with plenty of space for Quincy and me to add as many samples as possible for fans of the Quincy, M.E. TV show and the Quincy Examiner website to truly get a kick out of seeing again!

AT&T Long Distance (1968): “It All Depends On You” – A Rare Early Gem with a Future Star

Jack’s first 10+ min ad for AT&T long distance

Before he became the household name we know from The Odd Couple and Quincy, M.E., Jack Klugman lent his distinctive presence to an early and somewhat rare advertisement for AT&T Long Distance in 1970. This commercial is particularly unique as it features a younger Klugman interacting with a very young actor who would soon become recognizable himself: Peter Ostrum, who played Charlie Bucket in the classic film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory later that same year! The ad, part of AT&T’s “It All Depends On You” campaign, showcases Klugman’s innate ability to convey warmth and reliability, even in his earlier days. It’s a fascinating glimpse at Klugman before his most iconic roles, yet he already possesses that authentic connection with the viewer.

Bromo Seltzer (1970): When You Don’t Have Time to Feel Bad – Quincy Wouldn’t Either!

Circa 1970

One of Jack Klugman’s earlier commercial ventures saw him lending his presence to Bromo Seltzer. In a 1970 commercial for the effervescent antacid, Klugman highlighted the product’s fast-acting nature, emphasizing that when you “hurt even a little bit, time counts.” He contrasted Bromo Seltzer with other products that required more waiting, perfectly conveying the urgency of needing quick relief. This absolutely mirrored the essence of his later portrayal of Dr. Quincy, a character who was always on the go, tackling urgent matters, and certainly wouldn’t have time for a headache slowing him down!

St. Joseph Baby Aspirin (During and just after His Quincy Years): The Trusted Voice for Gentle Care

Circa 1981

Even while he was busy solving cases as Dr. Quincy, Jack Klugman’s trustworthy demeanor made him an ideal spokesperson for products that required a gentle touch. During his Quincy, M.E. years (1976-1983), Klugman lent his reassuring voice to St. Joseph Baby Aspirin commercials. His calm, steady presence conveyed the importance of responsible care, aligning perfectly with the compassionate and detail-oriented character he portrayed on prime-time television. It was a subtle yet powerful connection, reinforcing the idea that Klugman was a man you could rely on, whether for medical mysteries or trusted household remedies.

Circa 1984

Yoplait Yogurt (Late 1970s): A Taste of France with an American Twist – And Klugman’s Universal Appeal

Circa 1979

In the late 1970s, as Yoplait yogurt was making its push into the American market, they launched a campaign emphasizing its French origins and sophisticated taste. Interestingly, Jack Klugman was part of this campaign, which featured American celebrities speaking French or highlighting the “French-ness” of Yoplait. While it might seem a playful departure from his usual roles, Klugman’s universal everyman appeal, which made Quincy so relatable, helped bridge the gap. He made the “fancy” French yogurt accessible and appealing to a broader American audience. This campaign aimed to make Yoplait a household name, and our beloved Klugman played a key part in that national introduction.

National Hospice Ad (1982): A Timely Voice for Compassionate Care

In 1982, while Quincy, M.E. was still on air, Jack Klugman also lent his trusted voice to a Public Service Announcement for the National Hospice Organization. This early advocacy for hospice care was significant, highlighting Klugman’s deep-seated empathy and his willingness to use his public platform for causes focused on human dignity and comfort. His presence in this PSA resonated with the compassionate and understanding qualities that Dr. Quincy so frequently displayed, proving that Klugman’s commitment to caring extended far beyond the crime lab.

Circa 1982 Behind the Scenes on the Quincy set

Steak-umm (Early to Mid-1980s): The “I Really Love Steak-umm” Endorsement – Just Like Quincy’s Conviction!

Circa 1983

One of Klugman’s most memorable commercial appearances was for Steak-umm all-beef sandwich steaks. Here’s Jack working on his hometown authenticity with support for Philly, the place where steak sandwiches were born! Since Jack and his parents were from Philadelphia, it only made sense that this winning combination would come to light – and so it did! I say, when the food is served, “Enjoy”!

Circa 1983

What made this and his next ad particular stand out, much like Quincy’s unshakeable belief in what was right, was its seemingly unscripted authenticity. In the commercial, Klugman, with that signature Klugman earnestness, complains to the director about how his lines make it sound like “just another celebrity

endorsement.” He then insists, with a genuine conviction that only Jack Klugman (or Dr. Quincy, when he’s found a crucial clue!) could pull off, “How’s anyone supposed to know I’ve been eating Steak-umm for years? I wouldn’t buy any other brand!” This little meta-moment made the commercial feel incredibly authentic, reinforcing the idea that the man we trusted on screen truly believed in the product. It was pure Klugman, showing us the man behind our beloved M.E.

Circa 1984

Cannon Personal Copiers (Mid-1980s): Bringing Technology to the Masses – With Quincy’s Clarity

Circa 1980

In the mid-1980s, as personal technology was becoming more accessible, Jack Klugman was tapped to endorse Canon personal copiers. These copiers were revolutionary at the time, featuring an “all-in-one” toner cartridge that made them easier to maintain and more affordable for home and small office use. Klugman’s presence in these ads was much like Quincy explaining a complex medical finding – he helped demystify the technology, making it seem approachable and user-friendly. He often emphasized the simplicity and convenience of Canon’s innovative design, a quality that surely resonated with anyone who appreciated Quincy’s straightforward approach to problem-solving.

Celebrating Heritage: A Hanukkah Spot (Mid-1980s)

Sometime during the mid-1980s, Jack Klugman also provided a touching 30-second spot celebrating Hanukkah. This commercial was a lovely opportunity for Klugman to connect with audiences on a more personal level, supporting his Jewish heritage. His genuine and warm delivery in such an ad would have resonated deeply, showcasing the multifaceted nature of the man behind the characters we loved. It’s a wonderful example of how his trusted persona extended beyond product endorsements to cultural and personal affirmations.

Eagle Brand Snacks (Late 1980s): A Mini Odd Couple Reunion for Our Delight!

For fans of Jack Klugman’s legendary career, particularly those who loved him as Oscar Madison, his commercial appearances for Eagle Brand Snacks were a special treat. These ads, often from the late 1980s, reunited him with his Odd Couple co-star, Tony Randall (who portrayed Felix Unger). Seeing their familiar comedic chemistry play out again, even in a short commercial, was pure joy. Klugman’s gruff charm and Randall’s fastidious wit were a perfect foil, proving that their on-screen magic translated effortlessly to selling snacks. These commercials were a testament to their enduring appeal and friendship, providing a nostalgic wink to their most famous collaboration.

An Enduring Spirit: Jack Klugman’s Remarkable Comeback Post-Quincy

Beyond his extensive commercial work during his active acting career, Jack Klugman’s endorsement story also includes an incredible chapter of personal triumph. In the mid-1980s, not long after Quincy, M.E. concluded, Klugman was diagnosed with throat cancer, which severely impacted his vocal cords, affecting his ability to speak. Many believed his career was over. However, with immense determination and extensive therapy, he made a remarkable comeback, eventually regaining his voice and returning to acting in the late 1980s and beyond.

Public Service and A Lasting Legacy: Advocating for Health and Compassion

Beyond the world of product endorsements, Jack Klugman’s inherent trustworthiness and powerful personal story made him an ideal voice for crucial public service announcements, especially in his later years. These PSAs truly highlight the compassionate and resilient spirit that endeared him to millions, echoing the tireless advocacy of Dr. Quincy.

Oral/Throat Cancer PSA (Post-1980s): A Voice for Hope and Prevention

After his remarkable comeback from throat cancer in the mid-1980s, Jack Klugman became a powerful advocate for oral and throat cancer awareness. In a poignant PSA, likely from the late 1980s or 1990s, Klugman spoke directly to the audience, sharing his personal experience and emphasizing the importance of early detection and seeking medical attention. His voice, though altered by his battle, carried an even greater weight of authenticity and authority. This wasn’t just an actor delivering lines; it was a survivor sharing a life-saving message, a true testament to his courage and his continued dedication to public well-being, much like Dr. Quincy’s own commitment to public health.

Hospice Care PSA (Later Career): Embodying Empathy and Dignity in Life’s Final Stages

In what was possibly one of his very last professional appearances, Jack Klugman also lent his respected voice to a Public Service Announcement for hospice care. This PSA, likely from the late 1990s or early 2000s, underscored his enduring empathy and commitment to human dignity, principles that were at the very core of his character, Quincy. In this spot, Klugman’s presence would have conveyed understanding and reassurance, helping to demystify hospice and highlight its vital role in providing comfort and support during life’s most challenging times. It’s a beautiful final note on a career defined by caring and connection.

Jack Klugman’s commercial work, from early product endorsements to impactful public service announcements, provides a fascinating glimpse into his broad appeal and his remarkable ability to connect with audiences. Whether he was solving intricate crimes Quince, eloquently endorsing everyday products, or advocating for critical health issues, his authenticity resonated deeply. A quality that endured for seven incredible seasons, it was just as effective in a thirty-second spot as it was in a prime-time drama. Quincy and I truly hope you, as devoted fans of Quincy, M.E., and the Quincy Examiner, get a real kick out of seeing these again and celebrating every facet of this incredible, enduring actor!

And if we left any of your favorite Jack Klugman ads and commercials from the old days, let us know, and we’ll be sure to add and update this story with a credit to you for finding them!