Actress and comedian Jane Lynch directs and stars in a bunch of television ads for Illinois Tourism’s new “Middle of Everything” campaign that includes shout-outs to several Route 66 landmarks.
According to a news release, the ads will run in 20 markets across Illinois and seven neighboring states and will be seen on cable television nationwide. The $30 million “Middle of Everything” campaign aims to give the state’s tourism industry a boost as it emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the “Middle of Everything,” Lynch stars as Illinois’ official tour guide highlighting attractions in Chicago, Springfield, Historic Route 66, and the Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois.
Locations include the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac, Cozy Dog Drive In, in Springfield, the Grafton Sky Tour, the Art Institute, Shedd Aquarium and more.
“I loved every minute of working on this project promoting tourism in my home state and I’m so proud to finally see it come to life,” said Jane Lynch. “I am grateful for Gov. Pritzker’s enthusiasm and support for this new Illinois Tourism marketing campaign. We share the same passion for Illinois, its people, its culture, and the wonderful attractions across the state.”
A few of the ads:
Lynch gave a few remarks on the introduction of the campaign:
Lynch, who was born in the Chicago area and went to school at Illinois State University, probably is best known for her role as Sue Sylvester in the musical comedy series “Glee“, for which she won an Emmy Award.
(Screen-capture image from an Illinois Tourism “Middle of Everything” ad of Jane Lynch at Route 66 Motorheads Bar and Grill in Springfield, Illinois)