Date of Birth: October 21, 1891
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Date of Death: June 7, 1971
Biography
Leo Burnett was an iconic American advertising executive and the founder of Leo Burnett Company, Inc., one of the largest and most influential advertising agencies in the world. Born in St. Johns, Michigan, Burnett started his career as a journalist before transitioning to advertising. His innovative approach and creative vision revolutionized the advertising industry, creating memorable campaigns and characters like the Marlboro Man, Tony the Tiger, and the Pillsbury Doughboy. Burnett’s philosophy centered around the belief that advertising should be simple, memorable, and rooted in the product’s inherent qualities. His legacy continues to influence modern advertising practices and is celebrated for its emphasis on creativity and emotional connection with the audience.
5 Interesting Facts about Leo Burnett
1. Leo Burnett founded his advertising agency on August 5, 1935, with a bowl of apples in the reception area, symbolizing hospitality and optimism during the Great Depression.
2. He introduced the concept of “inherent drama” in advertising, focusing on the unique and compelling aspects of a product.
3. Burnett’s agency created some of the most enduring advertising mascots, including the Jolly Green Giant, the Keebler Elves, and Charlie the Tuna.
4. Leo Burnett was inducted into the American Advertising Federation Hall of Fame in 1961.
5. His agency’s famous slogan, “Reach for the Stars,” encapsulated Burnett’s belief in aiming high and achieving greatness through creativity and hard work.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Leo Burnett
1. “When you reach for the stars you may not quite get one, but you won’t come up with a handful of mud either.”
2. “Make it simple. Make it memorable. Make it inviting to look at. Make it fun to read.”
3. “Curiosity about life in all its aspects, I think, is still the secret of great creative people.”
4. “The work of an advertising agency is warmly and immediately human. It deals with human needs, wants, dreams, and hopes.”
5. “Good advertising does not just circulate information. It penetrates the public mind with desires and belief.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Leo Burnett’s net worth was estimated to be approximately $100 million, adjusted for inflation.
Children
Leo Burnett and his wife Naomi Geddes had three children: Peter, Joseph, and Phoebe Burnett.
Relevant Links
1. [Leo Burnett Biography – Ad Age](https://adage.com/article/adage-encyclopedia/leo-burnett/98703
2. [Leo Burnett – Advertising Hall of Fame](https://www.advertisinghall.org/members/leo-burnett
3. [The History of Leo Burnett – Leo Burnett Worldwide](https://www.leoburnett.com/about/history/
