by Danielle Renda MARKET SHARE Have You ‘Heard’? Brands cashed in on the Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard court trial with merch decorated with unforgettable quotes, showing another way that promo can tap media trends. The highly-publicized trial between Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp and his ex-wife and fellow actor Amber Heard became something of a soap opera this spring, due to its constant coverage on news stations, social media, podcasts and talk shows. A defamation case that began with serious allegations, the six-week-long trial undoubtedly served as a source of guilty pleasure entertainment for many, chock-full of embarrassing stories—who can forget Heard’s infamous “prank?”—and unusual remarks. When the verdict was read on June 1, more than 3.5 million viewers tuned-in to watch it. With so much interest on behalf of consumers, brands and independent makers created merchandise inspired by the trial. Consumers expressed mixed feelings toward the fact that branded products were being offered as the trial unfolded. However, the effort is yet another demonstration as to how promotional products can be used to share opinions and/or garner support in real time, no matter the cause. Here are products that fans of Depp, Heard or the trial itself can still get their hands on. The Objection Calls For Speculation Johnny Vs. Amber Trial tee from Geek T-Shirts features a comment made by Depp’s lawyer, Camille Vasquez, to Heard’s defense team several times during the trial. Pre-shrunk and made from cozy 100% ring-spun cotton, the tee is a regular fitted style, not too boxy and not too fitted. Shown in black. A wearable featuring another memorable comment from the trial is the Mega Pint Definition sweatshirt by Meme Mafia. During the trial, Depp was asked by Heard’s lawyer, Elaine Bredehoft, if he drank a “mega pint of red wine,” to which Depp responded that he poured himself “a large glass of wine.” Available in a variety of styles, such as a crewneck sweatshirt, tank top t-shirt (shown) and made from cotton, it’s customized using direct-to-garment printing. The What Would Amber Do? Depp Vs. Heard T-Shirt is a retail-fit tee with a range of options. It’s available in standard male and female fits, and as a classic, V-neck, premium, heavyweight or eco (recycled and organic) t-shirt, in men’s S-5XL and women’s S-3XL. Tinseltown / shutterstock.com | JULY 2022 | 65 THINK
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