But Wait Theres More

WEB But Wait, There's More!

The History of the Iconic Infomercial Line

Attention-Grabbing Lead:

The iconic infomercial line, "But wait, there's more!" has captured the attention of countless viewers, overwhelming them with a barrage of product functions. This seemingly endless offering is a rhetorical tactic, rooted in ancient Greek techniques, that has found its place in modern-day advertising.

Historical Context:

The application of "But wait, there's more" can be traced back to the ancient Greeks as a member of the amplification rhetorical family. This tactic aimed to intensify a message through repetition and elaboration.

A surprising example of this technique emerged in the Canadian House of Commons around 2007, when Finance Minister Jim Flaherty delivered a speech that incorporated the phrase.

Media Influence:

The popularity of "But wait, there's more" as an infomercial tagline soared, thanks in large part to the legendary pitchman, Billy Mays. His enthusiastic delivery of this line became synonymous with the infomercial genre.

Origins in Gadget Marketing:

The history of pitching unusual gadgets on television can be traced back to Samuel Jacob Popeil, a pioneer in the field of home shopping. His innovative products and iconic catchphrases, including "But wait, there's more," laid the foundation for the infomercial industry we know today.