From Audition Anxiety to Superbowl Spotlight: My Journey as the Bob Ross Guy
This was such a fun project to work on. We all know the iconic Bob Ross for his effortlessly beautiful paintings and calm, even demeanor. The question is have you ever wondered what would happen if the famously zen television icon lost his cool? Well, look no further. In this ad for O’Brien Service Company and Trane we show just that.
The origin of booking this commercial is a bit unique. I was out of town for a few days visiting family when I received the audition. I usually travel with lighting and a backdrop for rush auditions, however on this particularly quick trip I only brought my tripod and left the lighting setup behind. As is usually the case, the audition came with a deadline before I was set to return to the Coast. I used my parents library, rearranged the layout to utilize natural light and gave it my all.
After auditioning I always throw the script away as a ceremonious display of “it’s out of my hands now.” To my surprise and delight I heard back from casting a few days later informing me I had booked the role. I was excited and also a bit nervous. I grew up loving Bob Ross and wanted to bring humor to the role while also preserving a real admiration for the icon. I watched countless videos and listened to his voice while driving to attempt to achieve his signature gentle whisper.
The day of filming came and I had done the work. Nothing left to do, but bring it to life now. I had about a 45 minute drive to the Playhouse where we were set to film. I felt the familiar nerves and a tingle of imposter syndrome. In other words my self dialogue was okayyyyy you’ve convinced a lot of people that you can pull this off and now you actually have to do it. Eek! I listened to Bob the entire drive and my nerves began to dissipate as his voice lulled me into a calm state. Once I arrived and entered the Playhouse all the nerves were gone. I muttered to myself “You’ve got this” and pleaded with my body to agree. The cast and crew were incredibly personable and accommodating. I quickly felt at home and settled into hair and makeup to transform into his iconic afro and denim look.
A talented young man had crafted several paintings that I was instructed to destroy upon losing my temper. He assured me the paintings were reinforced and sturdy so I could really unload when I “attempted” to snap the picture over my leg a la Bo Jackson. A few last looks and we were camera ready. Take one and I take Anthony’s assurance to heart while really putting some mustard on this painting as I bring it crashing over my right knee. The wood and canvas absolutely exploded. This left me a little stunned and surprised to the point I took an extra beat before delivering my next lines. This moment of pulverization actually made the final cut in the ad. I believe it played quite well. We did several takes for turnaround, wide, and close up shots. I had several moments of self reflection and thought I cannot believe I get paid to do this. What a blast.
Fast forward a few weeks and our fearless leader Brian Donovan from ETC Media informs me this ad will air during the Superbowl. Whaaaatttt??? I couldn’t believe my luck to premier this to the public during such a coveted advertisement spot. I decided to mostly keep it to myself and let others experience the moment in real time. We were hanging out at our favorite local watering hole Southport Tap and Cellar when the fateful moment came. I didn’t know exactly when the ad would drop, just sometime during the game. While standing in the corner with friends I heard my voice before actually seeing the large tv with my mug hovering above the bar. The large crowd erupted along with my phone leaving me with mixed emotions of excitement and embarrassment. I find this is the ever present conundrum for me as I pursue a career in the limelight. The outpouring of love was incredibly humbling and I didn’t always handle it that well.
I’ve often heard stories of actors who fight against being typecast but never really understood it, that is until I found myself as the Bob Ross guy. Don’t get me wrong I loved working with all the incredible people and felt the final product was fantastic. That being said I couldn’t help but feel that my previous work and work to come would be overshadowed by the afro and paintbrush. I received countless calls, texts, emails, comments, and shwag. It seemed that every couple of days I received a new calendar, miniaturized Bob Ross, bobbleheads, sticker sets, and cards. Looking back I now fully realize what a true showing of love this act was from friends, family, and industry professionals alike. I’d like to say this realization arrived quickly but sadly it did not. I lamented many times “I’m not Bob Ross”! To which my wife Rose responded “Embrace it, people love you and the commercial.”
I now have several of these in my collection thanks to my kind and thoughtful friends.
What a beautiful day it was when I finally embraced all the great things this spot has brought me. I believe my best review came from my then 5 year old niece Harris who when watching the real Bob Ross was confused because he didn’t fly off the handle. In that moment something in my mind switched and I no longer felt saddled by the role and instead became incredibly grateful for every aspect of it. I now look at it as nothing but a blessing. I poured myself into the role and the public responded positively. What else could I ask for? I now watch it with love and appreciation. If you haven't seen it, check it out in the link above.
This is a little glimpse into the neurotic, absurd, and beautiful world of an actor. Thanks to everyone who reached out and made this such a special part of my journey. I will continue to pour myself into my projects and hope it resonates with you the audience.
Much Love,
Clark
Unforgettable: 11 of the most memorable Wilmington TV commercials
Clark Tatum plays Bob Ross in this Super Bowl ad; named 11 most memorable commercial.
