Well, St. Nicholas has been dead for a good 1680 years and his image in modified form (given a let’s say, more Northern aspect than his place of origin would suggest, with red, white fur-trimmed suit and a retinue of diminutive helpers and reindeer) is used every single Christmas season to promote all manner of products. He’s even promoted Coca Cola, the jolly old elf.
Sometimes it’s more of a homage to him, and other times it’s an outright impersonation. I’d bet he wouldn’t appreciate the impersonations. Just a guess though.
Good catch. It’s the same with Elmer the Empire Carpet guy. Voice and cartoon image but not his real face.
The Larry King interview one creeps me out the most. He was creepy enough when he was alive.
The “how many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop” commercial still airs, featuring Paul Winchell (d. 2005) as Mr. Owl. The long version of it also features Frank “YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS?” Nelson (d. 1986), Ralph James (d. 1992), and Paul Frees (d. 1986). The kid in the commercial, Buddy Foster (Jodie’s older brother!) is the only VA from the ad who is still alive.