Zohran Mamdani has captured significant attention with his innovative campaign strategies in New York City’s mayoral race, using creative advertising to connect with voters. Known for his unique approach, Mamdani’s Hollywood ad appeal strategically leverages popular TV franchises to address key political issues and unite a diverse supporter base.
The Power of Entertainment
Whether Zohran Mamdani’s approach becomes a blueprint for the Democratic Party remains uncertain. However, the 32-year-old candidate is certainly reshaping the conversation with his clever messaging. Mamdani’s campaign has creatively repurposed elements from popular TV shows like ABC’s The Bachelor and CBS’s Survivor to craft impactful ads.
“Our industry — messaging and making advertisement on the democratic side — has failed in recent years. Democrats got lazy and we were making cookie-cutter ads and that’s a fail,” says Eric Stern, a Democratic strategist from Fight Agency, which crafted Mamdani’s ads. The first ad debuted on October 1 during The Bachelor.
In a 30-second spot, Mamdani delivers a heartfelt campaign message, ending with offering a rose to viewers. A subsequent Survivor spoof features former contestants discussing affordable housing and childcare — Mamdani’s key campaign issues — while humorously “voting off” former Governor Andrew Cuomo from Manhattan.
Targeting the Unengaged
According to Stern, the choice of TV shows was intentional. “We knew that these were two shows that people would be talking about with their friends and we know that a lot of people that watch those shows aren’t very political,” he explains. Both The Bachelor and Survivor have dedicated audiences, providing a fertile ground for political messaging.
“People who watch CNN and MSNBC frankly, we know who they’re voting for,” Stern notes. “Finding folks that are disengaged from the process — that’s the challenge, and that’s where the power of Mamdani’s Hollywood ad appeal lies.”
Advocating for Affordability
The Survivor ad not only amused viewers but also touched on a pressing issue: affordability. Mamdani’s focus on this resonates strongly with those in the entertainment industry facing economic challenges, especially as the cost of living rises.
IATSE Local 161, representing behind-the-scenes workers, became the first union to endorse Mamdani. “Affordability is a key issue to our members,” the union stated, highlighting its vital relevance as the industry recovers from recent slowdowns.
Broad Support Base
Mamdani’s approach extends beyond industry workers. High-profile supporters, including actors Cynthia Nixon, Morgan Spector, and Kal Penn, have publicly backed his campaign. In a memorable ad, Spector called upon his The Gilded Age persona to critique the affluent in the Hamptons.
His platform resonates most with Hollywood’s working class. AFM Local 802, attracted by Mamdani’s understanding of freelancers’ challenges, finds his promises of rent freezes and free childcare particularly appealing. “We’ve seen a good deal of enthusiasm around his candidacy,” notes Dan Point, the union’s recording vice president.
Mamdani’s campaign, marked by creativity and inclusivity, exemplifies how engaging storytelling and strategic messaging can influence political landscapes, making his Hollywood ad appeal not just innovative but potentially transformative.
This story appeared in the Oct. 22 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. Click here to subscribe.
