Red Lobster has enlisted the help of one of its biggest fans for its latest Crabfest campaign.
Created in collaboration with agency BarkleyOKRP, the marketing initiative features famous hype man and rapper Flavor Flav lending his iconic voice to the main spot.
"When the internet said Red Lobster's going away, Flavor Flav said: not today!" he said in the ad.
The 30-second commercial also introduces the two flavors that go with Crabfest, which includes Roasted Garlic, and Cajun Butter.
Leveraging Flavor Flav's unique flair, the campaign includes 15-second and 30-second spots, social media posts by the rapper, an A/R social filter, and special creative effects.
Flavor Flav-inspired Red Lobster merchandise is also on the horizon, which will include bibs and a Cheddar Bay Biscuit-inspired watch necklace.
Turning a Bad Situation Around
The latest campaign from the restaurant chain follows the news of the company filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May, which sparked uproar among netizens, and sent Red Lobster fans into a frenzy.
One of those fans was Flavor Flav, who immediately set out to help the franchise by showing his support on social media.
Red Lobster is FAMILY. It’s a place I always bring my family,,, but they also treat ya like family. Shout out to Kim, Riannon and my main guys Jesus for always taking care of me,!!! 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/rhxWcqm9wM
— FLAVOR FLAV (@FlavorFlav) June 6, 2024
The rapper reached out to Red Lobster to offer his support, even visiting multiple Red Lobster locations across the U.S. to order the entire menu.
"We love seeing our fans show up and rally for us, so when Flavor Flav reached out, we answered the call and invited him to join us in reminding fans we’re here to stay," Red Lobster Chief Experience Officer Sara Bittorf said in a statement.
Taking advantage of the Crabfest promotional window, the company revised its initial plans for the ad to include the rapper.
The 30-second spot is now available online, while the 15-second spot airs on TV in the upcoming weeks.
