While media reports are surfacing of a massive “firestorm” because Mike Rowe was a voiceover for a Wal-Mart commercial, it seems supporters are lobbying faster than critics. The supporters seem to be many and the bashing by few - it seems some media outlets are immersing within the negative.
What is the chatter about? Rowe was tapped by Wal-Mart to provide the voiceover effect, Rowe is infamous for. The celebrity host announced Wal-Mart’s intention to purchase upwards of $250 billion of “Made in America” products to store on their shelves. Rowe stated after the commercial aired during the Olympics, he thought nothing of it and went to bed. He woke up into media hell.
Rowe states he was accused by some as a sell-out, because he had always been about the “little” guy, the underdog and working with Wal-Mart was wrong. On the Rowe Facebook page, debate rang out and fierce supporters for Rowe came out of the woodwork to slam critics, calling Rowe an inspiration. Rowe wanted to clear the air specifically by naming some important points: he is not a spokeman for Wal-Mart, he merely was hired to do a narrative. He also told viewers yes he does shop there, because it provides affordability, especially when it comes to acquiring clothing that is used in “dirty job” environments.
Rowe stated his foundation, mikeroweWORKS will partner at anytime with any company who is willing to put American products on the shelves. He included Chevy, Lowe’s and smartly stated even if “George Soros,” or the “Koch Brothers,” because it was about putting Americans back to work. Rowe states he does not associate with a boxed label such as Democrat or Republican, rather he is a bigger fan of America and the “American Worker.” The post earned over 95,000 likes and has been shared over 36,000 times. The supporters cheered his words, as Rowe delivered them in the only way he has the talent to.
Additionally, teachers stepped forward in the post, thanking Rowe for establishing his support behind the American worker. One asked if she could use his post in her class, creating over 650 likes to her post. Yes, whenever Wal-Mart is mentioned, controversy is sure to follow. Rowe wants people to understand the basis of his voiceover - more American products on the shelves. His supporters were many and his bashing from critics faded behind the cheer of likes. It is always a good time to celebrate a home country developing products for their own citizens.
Contributing: Li Bouc
Editorial