TNT Transforms Gas Station To Promote TV Show Dallas

Television network TNT took over a Manhattan gas station yesterday to promote the season 3 premiere of the remake of the 70s/80s TV show Dallas, and transformed it into a Ewing Gas Station!

So, What is Dallas Exactly?

Who doesn’t remember Dallas, the TV show from the 70s and 80s about the wealthy Ewing family, who own the independent oil company Ewing Oil? In 2012 TNT decided to revive the popular show, this time revolving it around the lives of the sons of main characters J.R. and Bobby Ewing, John Ross and Christopher. Even Patrick Duffy and Larry Hagman returned to their original characters!

Because season 3 of the new series premiered last night, TNT came up with an innovative way to promote the premiere. No, traditional advertising, no, TNT actually took over a Manhattan gas station and turned it into a Ewing Gas Station, logos and all.

It wouldn’t be complete of course without people getting something good out of the whole ordeal, so the Ewing Gas Station offered gas for the low price of $1.98 per gallon for a day. The show’s star Josh Henderson even showed up to pump some cheap gas. TNT teamed up with creative agency The Mobile Media Lab and sent some Instagrammers to capture the event.

Take a look at John Ross Ewing’s announcement on YouTube:

My Opinion

I love this. It’s innovative, interesting, fun and sure to attract people. It gets TNT the attention they want, and gives something in return for people giving their attention. The actor who plays the main character showing up is just the icing on the cake.

TV show advertising like this doesn’t happen very often, so when it happens so exceptionally good, it sure is a treat. Getting highly followed NYC Instagrammers to document the entire event is also a smart move. It reaches a new, international, audience and is a sure way to get new viewers.

What About You?
What do you think of this stunt by TNT? Let us know!

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About The Author
Marion aan ‘t Goor is a Social Media Consultant. You can connect with Marion via Twitter and LinkedIn.