CA$HING IN!

June 28, 1953

On June 28, 1953, newspapers were talking about the marketing and merchandising opportunities of the new medium of television, particularly TV’s biggest hit, “I Love Lucy.”  America wanted to live like the Ricardos, and Desilu was more than happy to comply, through an array of products.  Perhaps the most desirable was the “I Love Lucy” baby doll.  

Lucy and Desi not only promoted their sponsors (like Philip-Morris), they also endorsed a variety of products, some tied-in to their show (which they partly owned), but others that were not related, too.  

The “I Love Lucy” bedroom furniture was the perfect complement to your “I Love Lucy” pajamas, although the couple here is dressed in their best to show off their bedroom. 

In case you wondered if Lucy and Desi were behind the products, they contributed a written testimony to assure buyers. 

Another way of keeping the series on everyone’s lips was the “I Love Lucy” comic strip.  Here’s the strip for June 28, 1953, which is also about products!