Volkswagen sure knows how to make the most of its partnership with Saturday Night Live. In honor of SNL's 50th Anniversary, it recently debuted a new spot featuring the new ID. Buzz in a reimagined version of "The Californians", an iconic sketch dating back to 2012. With it came some major SNL start power - none other than the original, beloved sketch trio- Fred Armisen, Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig. In the spot, co-developed with NBC Universal, Fred's characters introduces Bill and Kristen's characters to the all-electric ID. Buzz. The spot aired during SNL's 50th Anniversary broadcast Sunday night.
VW says the integration of the ID. Buzz in the iconic "The Californians" sketch underscores the brand's connection to California, a state rooted in car culture. The parody also references driving routes throughout the Southern California region.
The automaker is the official partner of “Saturday Night Live’s” 50th anniversary season as the brand wraps up its 75th anniversary in the U.S.
“Volkswagen’s recent 75th anniversary in the U.S. and Saturday Night Live’s 50th season are milestone moments for two iconic brands,” said Rachael Zaluzec, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience and Brand Marketing, Volkswagen of America. “‘The Californians’ is as synonymous with SNL as the ID. Buzz is with California, making it the perfect vehicle to bring back a sketch that resonates with so many. Especially in the wake of this recent tragedy that has affected communities across California, we believe in the healing power of comedy.”
VW says it's also making a financial contribution to the California Fire Foundation to support first responders and their families.
“With the leadership and oversight of professional firefighters, the California Fire Foundation provides immediate relief to evacuees and firefighters whose lives are risked and upended in times of disaster, resources to prepare firefighters and communities to prevent and combat firestorms that devastate our state, and emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities we protect,” said Brian K. Rice, Chair, California Fire Foundation. “We are grateful to Volkswagen for their generosity and their commitment to support firefighters and the communities we serve.”
To donate to the California Fire Foundation, please visit the dedicated fundraising page: https://cpf.salsalabs.org/volkswagenforcff/index.html.
Photo: Volkswagen.