On My Radar: BB Blanchard

What’s the most creative advertising idea you’ve seen recently?

I thought the Severance pop-up at Grand Central was brilliant. I’m a huge fan of the show, and it was such a smart, on-brand way to promote the new season. Since the Lumon employees are constantly watched, putting the actors in a glass box at one of the busiest areas in NYC made the show's eerie surveillance theme feel real for fans. I also loved that it was the actual cast!

What website(s) do you use most regularly?

Spotify is a constant for me! I always have something playing in the background. Most likely my daylist, because Spotify and I have been together a long time, and she knows me way too well. My most recent daylist was a little too real: “Work Hard Cinematic Night.”

What’s the most recent piece of tech that you’ve bought?

I recently got a new mini speaker system for my computer at home. It’s tiny but mighty (sorry neighbours).

What product could you not live without?

Not to be this person, but probably my phone. I use it constantly to keep in touch with my family in Louisiana, and keep tabs on all my girlies on Find My Friends. 

What’s the best film you’ve seen over the last year?

Ok, this is a tough one for me. I’m a huge film buff, and it was such a great year, so I chose two. First, Sing Sing. This is such an important film. It’s a reminder that, even within a broken system built to oppress, art is more than just an outlet — it heals, empowers, and becomes a force of liberation. I ugly-cried when the credits rolled and I saw 'as himself' over and over. I was blown away by how beautifully they told their own stories. 

Second is Taste of Cherry, which actually came out in 1997, so maybe this is cheating? But it definitely struck a chord with me. I don’t want to say too much, because I think anyone who watches it should go in blind, but just know that your perspective on life will never be the same.

What film do you think everyone should have seen?

The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Next question. 

What’s your preferred social media platform?

Gotta be Instagram. Mostly because I’m a millennial, but also because it’s such a seamless way to find inspiring filmmakers and creatives, and also stay connected with loved ones.

What’s your favourite TV show?

My go-to comfort show will forever be New Girl. Nick, Schmidt, Winston and Coach can cure me of all ailments. But more recently, I have to go with Succession. It’s truly a masterclass in all aspects: acting, screenwriting, editing, cinematography, etc. Never forget: 'you can't make a Tomlette without breaking some Greggs'

What’s your favourite podcast?

I’m not a huge podcast person anymore. I used to listen to a lot of true crime, like Serial or My Favorite Murder. Nowadays if I’m listening to a podcast, it’s probably The Daily, though I can’t exactly say I enjoy it lately. 

What have you been most inspired by recently?

For me, travel is when I feel most creatively recharged. I recently took a trip to Istanbul and found so much inspiration there. It was amazing meeting locals, eating incredible food and experiencing a culture totally different from my own.

If you could only listen to one music artist from now on, who would it be?

This question should be illegal. My first instinct is to say Fred Again. He’s always my go-to for everything, whether it’s comfort, hype or just background vibes. But I’d be lying if I didn’t also mention Beyoncé. Her discography spans such an incredible range, and now that she’s exploring even more genres, I know I’ll never get bored. 

If there was one thing you could change about the advertising industry, what would it be?

I’d love for the ad industry to step up when it comes to inclusivity. There’s so much talk about it and not a lot of action. Brands and agencies should really step out of their comfort zones to find all the amazing, up-and-coming talent that’s out there. From directors and filmmakers to creatives and content creators, there are so many original and diverse voices who aren’t getting a real shot.

Who or what has most influenced your career?

Definitely my parents. From a young age, they raised me to be passionate, curious, and fearless when it came to my goals and aspirations. They’ve been my biggest support system every step of the way, whether I was juggling part-time jobs and internships or packing up and moving across the country in a week. Plus, they introduced me to great films early on, which kickstarted my love for the industry and helped shape the path I’m on today.