Billy Mays was an American television salesperson best known for his high-energy infomercials that captivated audiences and helped sell billions of dollars worth of products. With a signature blue shirt, khaki pants, and a booming voice, Mays became a household name in direct-response marketing, revolutionizing the industry and turning television sales into an art form.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on July 20, 1958, in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, Billy Mays grew up in a working-class family. After attending West Virginia University for a short period, he left school to pursue a career in sales. In 1983, he began working as a pitchman on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, where he learned the fundamentals of selling from veteran sales expert Arnold Morris. Mays quickly mastered the ability to captivate an audience, demonstrating products with enthusiasm and clarity. His early work selling the Washmatic portable washing device laid the foundation for his future success in the world of television marketing.
Rise to Fame in Infomercials
In the early 1990s, Mays relocated to Florida, where he became involved with Orange Glo International. His big break came with the success of Orange Glo Wood Cleaner & Polish, followed by OxiClean, which became his most iconic product. His unique selling style—speaking directly to the camera with enthusiasm and conviction—set him apart from other television pitchmen. His signature phrase, “BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE!” became instantly recognizable, reinforcing his ability to engage audiences and make products feel indispensable.
Mays had a rare talent for making viewers feel as though he was speaking directly to them. His demonstrations were not only informative but also entertaining, helping him build trust with consumers. Over time, he became the face of numerous products, including Kaboom, Zorbeez, and Mighty Putty, among many others. His influence extended beyond late-night television, as his commercials aired during daytime programming and on major networks.
“Pitchmen” and Final Years
In 2009, Mays partnered with the Discovery Channel to star in “Pitchmen,” a reality series that provided an inside look at the world of direct-response marketing. Alongside fellow pitchman Anthony Sullivan, Mays evaluated new products and worked with inventors to bring their ideas to life. The show highlighted his passion for sales and his commitment to helping entrepreneurs succeed.
Tragically, on June 28, 2009, Mays passed away at his home in Tampa, Florida, at the age of 50. Reports later confirmed that he died from heart disease. His widow mentioned that he had not been feeling well before going to bed the night before his death and had sustained a head injury during a rough airplane landing the previous day.
Real Estate and Legacy
In 2007, Billy Mays purchased a townhome in Tampa for $981,000, where he lived until his death two years later. In January 2023, his heirs sold the property for $825,000. Though he left behind a net worth of $2 million, his real impact cannot be measured in monetary terms. Mays transformed the infomercial industry and became a pop culture icon, proving that authenticity and passion could make a lasting impression on consumers.
