Martha Stewart, a name synonymous with elegance and sophistication, has long been a fixture in American homes. Known for her expansive empire that spans books, homewares, television, and more, Stewart continues to captivate audiences with her charisma and versatility. Recently, her unexpected friendship with rapper Snoop Dogg and a daring Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover have reminded fans that at 83, she is far from retiring to obscurity.
In her latest venture, Stewart has become the face of Rexona Australia’s new Whole Body Deodorant range. The commercial, which features Stewart lounging in a silk nightgown accompanied by a younger man, has left audiences nationwide in awe. However, in an exclusive interview with Sylvia Jeffreys, Stewart disclosed that this is not the most controversial project she has undertaken with the brand.
Martha Stewart’s Early Foray into Advertising
Stewart revealed a lesser-known chapter of her storied career, recounting her involvement in a Lifebuoy soap commercial at the tender age of 15. “It’s a funny story, actually, because when I was 15-years-old, I was asked to do a Lifebuoy soap commercial,” Stewart shared with a smile. “Unilever owned that company as they own Rexona, so now being asked many, many years later to do another deodorant commercial, I thought it was certainly worth the try.”
In the original commercial, Stewart played the role of a married woman opposite an actor in his 40s. Such an age disparity might raise eyebrows today, but Stewart expressed no regrets about her early acting experience.
“I was acting, so it was just a natural thing to be married to a 40-year-old,” she reflected. “My schoolmates, because we all watched the same programmes, Gunsmoke was on TV at the time, the soap commercial with Martha playing a married woman would come on and it was hysterical.”
Breaking Norms and Shaping Careers
Stewart’s candid reflections highlight the evolving nature of advertising and societal norms. In the 1960s, when Stewart filmed the Lifebuoy commercial, the advertising industry was a different landscape. The portrayal of relationships and age dynamics was less scrutinized, allowing for creative liberties that might not be as readily accepted today.
Despite the potential controversy, Stewart’s early work in advertising laid the foundation for her future success. The earnings from the Lifebuoy commercial enabled her to pay for her tuition at Barnard College in New York City, a pivotal step in her journey to becoming a household name.
The Legacy of a Lifestyle Icon
Stewart’s career trajectory is a testament to her ability to adapt and thrive in various domains. From her beginnings in a soap commercial to becoming a media mogul, her story is one of resilience and reinvention. Her recent ventures, including the Rexona commercial, continue to push boundaries and challenge perceptions of age and capability.
As Stewart reflects on her past and embraces new opportunities, she remains an inspiration to many. Her willingness to revisit her roots while charting new paths underscores her enduring influence in the worlds of lifestyle and entertainment.
Looking ahead, Stewart’s fans eagerly anticipate her next move, confident that she will continue to surprise and delight with her unique blend of grace and audacity.
