In 1969, a now-iconic commercial first popped the question, “How many licks does it take to get to the Tootsie Roll center of a Tootsie Pop?” This deceptively simple line in a 30-second script managed to be conversational, relatable, and unforgettable all at once. If you’re an aspiring commercial actor, getting your hands on a great script like that one is the first step to building up your commercial demo reel or just getting in a little practice before your next audition.
1. Understandability is everything.
Like anything in the arts, nailing a commercial audition takes repetition and practice (just ask Dan). The most important job of a commercial—and, therefore, of a commercial actor—is to sell a product. And the only way a consumer is going to be interested in that product is if they can understand what it is you’re saying. Diction, volume, and precision should be a top priority—as much as any other acting job (or maybe even slightly more so!).
2. Pace is a delicate balancing act.
Commercials are generally expected to fit within a specific time slot (usually anywhere from 15 seconds to a minute), so it’s important that your delivery fits within the parameters of the given commercial. Move too slowly, and suddenly your commercial is going into non-existent overtime. Move too quickly, and suddenly you’re compromising that all-important understandability we mentioned earlier. There’s a sweet spot between the two, and hitting it takes practice.
3. Keep it engaging.
Once you’ve gotten your pace and diction down, forget about these factors entirely. Don’t get so focused on the technical elements that you forget to have fun and craft a memorable performance. Commercial casting directors are looking for personalities just as much as they’re looking for technically skilled actors and readers. Understanding is important, but nobody will buy anything if they get so bored that they tune out.
The short answer? Yes. There are no rules when it comes to practice or reel-building, so if you recently saw an insurance commercial that just speaks to you, go for it! Still, existing material comes with a few pitfalls that may make it ultimately not worth it to you. An existing commercial inevitably means an existing performance. The fact that anyone watching your reel may have seen the original sets you up for unnecessary comparison. Similarly, even if you try to stay neutral, it can be difficult not to let the original actor’s choices influence yours. When you’re auditioning for a commercial, you won’t have any point of reference to another actor’s performance (for better or for worse), so using a sample script will help you to more accurately recreate those circumstances.
Here are a few sample scripts from a variety of genres to help keep your commercial skills sharp and ready, both for onscreen and voiceover. While these sample scripts range in length, keep in mind that commercial demo reels should generally be less than two minutes, so choose your best 15–20 seconds in order to showcase a handful of different commercials.
1. Travel Agency Commercial Sample Script: TravelNow (30 seconds)
Travel shouldn’t be complicated. At TravelNow, we believe your adventure begins the moment you start planning. Our cutting-edge platform offers instant access to global destinations, competitive pricing, and seamless booking experiences. From tropical paradises to urban escapes, we curate travel options that match your dreams and budget. Compare, customize, and confirm—all in minutes. With 24/7 customer support and price-match guarantees, we’re not just booking trips—we’re crafting unforgettable experiences. Your perfect vacation is just a click away. TravelNow: Where every journey begins.
If you’re looking for something shorter or longer, view a 15-second-long and a minute-long version of this commercial here.
2. Car Trading Site Commercial Sample Script: RevvUp (30 seconds)
Tired of the hassle of traditional car dealerships? Ready to drive your dreams? Introducing RevvUp, your one-stop shop for buying and selling cars online. With RevvUp, you’ll find a vast selection of cars to choose from, all in one convenient place. Search by make, model, year, and price to find your perfect match. RevvUp: Your trusted partner for buying and selling cars online. Visit our website today and start driving your dreams.
If you’re looking for something shorter or longer, view a 15-second-long and a minute-long version of this commercial here.
3. Food Commercial Sample Script: La Luna Pasta (15 seconds)
La Luna Pasta. Rich and savory. Luxurious. A symphony for your senses. Explore our gourmet offerings online. Treat yourself to an extraordinary pasta experience.
If you’re looking for something a little longer, view a 30-second-long and a minute-long version of this commercial here.
4. Makeup Commercial Sample Script: LuxeLips (30 seconds)
In a world of fleeting beauty, LuxeLips stands a class apart. Presenting our masterpiece: The allure that never fades. For every woman who stands tall, for the classic, the sophisticated, the fearless. Every stroke is a commitment, every shade an emotion. With LuxeLips, dare to leave more than just an impression. It’s the age of icons, and your moment is now. LuxeLips: Be the Icon. Unleash your inner beauty.
If you’re looking for something shorter or longer, view a 15-second-long and a minute-long version of this commercial here.
5. Retirement Community Commercial Sample Script: Green Gables (30 seconds)
You’ve always wanted to retire in style. The residents of Green Gables Retirement
Community enjoy 25% more life and easy living! There’s no need to cut the lawn, shovel the driveway, or climb unnecessary stairs; you’ll have more time, more energy, and more life! Those are just three great benefits of living at Green Gables. Green Gables, the world at your doorstep with all the amenities!
6. Day Care Commercial Sample Script: Mother Goose’s Nannies and Sitters (30 seconds)
This commercial requires multiple readers, but we think taking a smaller piece of it would be perfect for those looking for onscreen sample scripts.
Jane: (Writing in journal) I’m just like any other mom. My kids are a handful, my husband works shifts, and I have no time to myself. I wonder, Could time grow on trees?
The phone rings. Jane stops writing in her journal to answer.
Jane: Hello?
Louise: Hi, Jane, do you have a couple of hours to spare this afternoon?
Jane: I wish I did, but it would appear that I’m stranded. My usual sitter is on a date and there’s no one else in the neighborhood to watch my kids.
Louise: Have you heard of Mother Goose’s Nannies and Sitters? I was stuck once last month and my sister referred them to me. What a lifesaver! Call them at 555-5555.
Jane: Thanks, Lou, I’ll give them a shout. Maybe we’ll get out today after all.
Announcer: Mother Goose’s Nannies and Sitters: More than just your average babysitters.
7. Event Commercial Sample Script: Firemen’s Christmas Gala (30 seconds)
All dressed up with nowhere to go? Think again! The Firemen’s Annual Christmas Gala is just around the corner. Early bird tickets are selling fast for this black-tie event, so make sure that you take down this phone number in order to secure your table!
Ready? Dial 555-7812 to reserve your table now. Visa and Mastercard accepted.
A limited number of tickets will be available at the door, so order in advance to secure your table and save!
If you’re looking for even more royalty-free commercial scripts to use, Voices has an extensive library here and here. While most of the scripts were written with voiceover commercial acting in mind, we think they’d work well for onscreen acting, too.
Ready to put your commercial skills to work? Check out our commercial audition call boards here and here.
