Chad Michael Murray is front and center in Bubly’s latest push, lending a touch of 2000s charm to a new soda that leans hard into childhood memories. The actor, best known for One Tree Hill, teamed with the brand to promote a retro-inspired flavor called Melted Ice Pop. He discussed the campaign and its millennial-focused angle with PEOPLE, blending pop culture nostalgia and modern marketing.
Why Bubly chose Chad Michael Murray for this millennial push
Bubly wanted someone who connects with a generation now in their 30s and 40s. Murray fits that profile.
- Iconic association: His One Tree Hill fame taps into strong emotional recall.
- Relatable persona: Murray’s image balances teen-era star power with grown-up authenticity.
- Social reach: His fanbase still engages online, making him a solid choice for shareable content.
What Melted Ice Pop tastes like and how it’s positioned
Bubly describes Melted Ice Pop as a playful take on a childhood treat. The company aims to evoke the sticky-sweet feeling of chasing a melting freezer pop on a hot afternoon.
Flavor notes and sensory cues
- Bright, candy-like fruit profile.
- Effervescent finish to mimic that frozen-to-melted transition.
- Clear branding that signals summer and playfulness.
How nostalgia shapes the creative direction
The campaign leans into millennial memories. Simple imagery, warm tones, and callbacks to early-2000s vibes are central.
- Visual cues: Retro typography and playful color palettes.
- Audio beats: Music choices that hint at the era without overt imitation.
- Storytelling: Short clips that recreate small, joyful moments.
Campaign rollout: formats and platforms to watch
Bubly is using a mix of channels to maximize exposure for Melted Ice Pop.
- Short-form video on social platforms for quick, scroll-stopping hooks.
- AM and PM online ads targeting millennial demographics.
- In-store displays and limited-edition packaging.
What Murray shared with PEOPLE about the project
He framed the partnership as a fun nod to the past. Murray emphasized the lighthearted tone of the spots and his enjoyment of the nostalgic concept.
- He called the collaboration “playful” and fitting for fans who grew up with his work.
- He noted the challenge of blending authenticity with a brand message.
Availability, packaging, and where to try it
Melted Ice Pop will appear in select grocery chains and online retailers. Bubly plans limited-edition packaging to boost collectibility.
- Initial rollout in major U.S. markets.
- Special pop-art cans that lean into retro design.
- Pop-up sampling events expected in urban centers.
Early reactions and what fans are saying
Social chatter highlights both the flavor and the star power. Fans tag friends who grew up with One Tree Hill and compare the taste to childhood treats.
- Positive mentions focus on the fun, familiar flavor profile.
- Some posts praise the packaging and marketing as clever nostalgia.
- Others note surprise at mainstream brands leaning into millennial-specific callbacks.
Marketing takeaways: why nostalgia still sells
Brands use memory-triggering elements to create emotional connections. For Bubly, pairing a familiar face with a playful flavor amplifies that effect.
- Emotional pull: Nostalgia reduces friction in purchasing decisions.
- Shareability: Relatable content encourages tagging and sharing.
- Cross-generational reach: Parents and younger audiences can both find appeal.
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