O Positive Films proudly welcomes Thaddeus McCants, a multi-hyphenate talent, to its team for commercial representation. McCants, known for his diverse skills as a screenwriter, playwright, performer, and director, brings a fresh perspective to the advertising industry.
McCants made his debut in the commercial world with the 2022 “Coliseum Tailgate” Super Bowl spot for Avocados From Mexico, co-directed with O Positive’s David Shane. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic, McCants showcased his directing prowess on the project, earning recognition for his ability to manage complex productions.
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David Shane, recalling the experience, shared, “And, of course, I got Covid the week before and missed the first shoot day. Racked with guilt, I flew there that night, telling myself over and over again that I had to save Thaddeus. And when I pulled up the next morning, he’s on a bullhorn directing traffic like Cecil B. DeMille, and I found myself thinking, ‘Who’s saving who?’ It takes him a day to absorb the lessons it took me a decade to learn. It’s very annoying.”
Since his debut, McCants has continued to direct commercials independently, including multiple spots for Progressive’s Replay campaign, showcasing his talent in crafting performances and delivering comedic dialogue.
His creative journey spans various entertainment genres, from screenwriting for HBO Max’s Julia to creating his original series Lit Lounge for BET. His diverse portfolio includes work with James Patterson and VICE Media on multiple AUDIBLE originals, directing TV pilots and short films, and acting in productions like Boardwalk Empire and Disney’s Freaky Friday the musical.
REELated:
McCants, a Brooklyn-based talent, and O Positive Films crossed paths during their time at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, where he met David Shane. Reflecting on their initial encounter, McCants humorously stated, “At the time, I had no idea he was one of the most prolific dudes in the commercial industry. I just knew him as a hilarious writer, a generous classmate and a dude with a sweet Batman lunchbox.”
Shane expressed his admiration for McCants, saying, “Thaddeus is one of the most talented and lovely people I’ve ever met. He has a real voice, and that’s something we’re always looking for in our directors.”
Artistically aligned with O Positive’s vision, McCants is excited about creating idiosyncratic, human moments of comedy that illuminate brands. His unique background, being Black and Ashkenazi Jewish, grandson of a Rabbi, and son of a Black Panther, brings a rich tapestry of perspectives to advertising, promising new levels of engagement for brands.
As McCants joins O Positive Films, he emphasizes values such as diversity, parity, and sustainability in his directorial approach. Grateful for the opportunity, he looks forward to contributing to a more diverse and equitable advertising industry.
Reel 360 News wishes Thaddeus the best of luck at O Positive.
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