Zach Galifianakis already had a great career in comedy. After more than a decade of performing stand-up appearances, the actor secured wider recognition with his co-starring role as Alan Garner in the 2009 mega-hit The Hangover.
Hands down to the funniest dude in the movie. There should be no doubt as to why he stole the spotlight in the sequels. Because he performed the movie’s over-the-top moments with his razor-sharp wit and serious face.
So yes, everyone is impressed with Galifianakis, besides the giant athletic footwear and apparel line, Nike. The brand is not at all impressed with him due to just one question.
And that’s how he turned down a potential million-dollar deal with Nike. The decision was influenced by a question he asked that left Nike executives shocked. It led to the deal’s breakdown.
Zach Galifianakis’ Axed the Deal with Nike
Nike contacted Zach Galifianakis after the success of his mega-hit movie The Hangover in 2009. But he turned down $700,000 to be a Time Warner spokesperson.
It all started when someone from Nike’s sponsorship department asked Galifianakis if he would consider being a spokesperson for Nike. While being a spokesperson for one of the biggest brands worldwide is no less than a golden opportunity, the actor shot back with a question instead of saying an instant big yes.
The Hangover star questioned: “So, do you guys still have 7-year-olds making your stuff?” Then what? he didn’t get that job. Nike considered collaborating with Zach Galifianakis, but with this, they decided not to pursue a sponsorship deal with him. And ultimately the partnership wasn’t a good match for Zach Galifianakis.
Zach Galifianakis Questioned Nike’s Ethics
Zach Galifianakis had two choices. Choosing a hefty sponsorship would be easy rather than going for ethical considerations. But the actor chose what he felt was right and what was actually right. He disagreed about endorsing a brand with ethical issues related to child labor. Galifianakis prioritized moral values over a thousand dollars in the Nike sponsorship deal.
With this, the actor once again won the hearts of many. It takes guts to tear down a huge corporation by questioning its unethical practices. Though he might be struggling with financial uncertainties in his career. Yet, his commitment to a strong moral code resonated positively with his audience.
