Ed McMahon Does the Super Bowl

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

01 Feb 2009 07:50 AM

What would Johnny think?

Given his current financial situation it's nice to see that Ed McMahon is making a few bucks these days... and today he has the Super Bowl to thank for his paycheck.

For those of you who tune into the big game just to see the commercials, you'll be treated to McMahon's mug and his story of how he survived bankruptcy by selling stuff around his house.

It's no joke. Johnny Carson's former sidekick is teaming up with Cash4Gold, which buys jewelry and other precious metal objects, to create a humorous Super Bowl ad spotlighting McMahon's real life money woes. According to Cash4Gold execs, the TV pitchman actually used the company's services last year when he was desperately trying to raise cash to pay his mortgage.

"I had a lot of old wedding bands," McMahon told reporters. "Let's say they had 'mixed' memories associated with them."

According to the company's website, Cash4Gold customers mail their "unwanted gold, silver and platinum" in pre-paid insured envelopes and "sit back and relax" while their check is mailed.

The ad is authentic and reportedly pokes fun at McMahon's financial situation. Interestingly, the former "Tonight Show" alum won't be the only D-list star to appear in the new Super Bowl commercial. Rapper MC Hammer, who faced financial woes of his own in the past, will also make an appearance.

The ad was reportedly shot in McMahon's now infamous Beverly Hills home.

Yes, the aging announcer and his wife Pam are still in their mansion and have not yet faced foreclosure.

"We are still in our home," McMahon told reporters, "and remain optimistic that whatever happens will be for the best."

No word on how much Cash4Gold shelled out to advertise during the Super Bowl, but reports say 30-second spots that air prior to halftime went for roughly $3 million each.

That's a lot of old wedding rings.

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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