At the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills, two senior executives from the Marketing and Public Relations Department of Mercedes-Benz were seated early in a lounge room.
"Schultz, I still think Matthew Horner is too young!" said a middle-aged man with golden short hair, sitting near the window, his expression serious. "He is not the best fit for the G-series."
Schultz, a plump middle-aged man who spoke slowly, responded, "Becker, I've seen Matthew Horner at an event before. He looks more mature than his age, and besides, the G-series needs a sporty element. His age isn't an issue."
Becker was unconvinced, "A Hollywood star under twenty-five..."
Schultz reminded him, "You're overlooking something. Among Hollywood actors his age, Matthew Horner has the best image and the biggest fame."
"I still prefer using our German stars," Becker admitted his true thoughts.
It was a professional disagreement, not personal. Schultz chuckled, "I understand, but the reality is that our local German stars are barely recognized outside Germany. You've dealt with Arnold Schwarzenegger before; you should know better than I do about the influence of Hollywood movie stars."
Becker acknowledged that point. Within the realm of movie stars, aside from a few European actresses, no one could match Hollywood stars in global fame and influence.
Perhaps some people in the film industry were more influential, but they were preparing a car advertisement aimed at the broad middle-class consumer group.
Becker's hesitation stemmed mainly from age. While Matthew Horner's on-screen roles were mature, everyone knew that characters could be shaped by makeup and other means. If he was like those typical Hollywood teen idols in real life, he definitely wouldn't suit the advertisement.
The Mercedes G-series, though not a top luxury vehicle, started at $70,000 in North America, a price out of reach for most teenagers.
Schultz didn't say more. With Schwarzenegger leaving for politics, they had decided not to renew his contract more than six months ago, prompting him to lead a team in a global search for a suitable new spokesperson. Due to corporate strategy, the new spokesperson had to be under forty.
The G-series had been around for decades and felt increasingly dated in recent years. The headquarters urgently wanted to revitalize the series.
Initially, they considered replacing Schwarzenegger with a soccer star, but few soccer stars had the right image and personality to match the G-series.
The team eventually turned their attention to Hollywood, and Schultz, who had seen Matthew Horner at the Oscars that year, nominated him as one of the candidates.
A knock on the door was heard, and an assistant opened it, announcing, "Matthew Horner and his agent have arrived."
Schultz nodded, "Bring them in."
He stood up and walked to the door to greet the guests, with Becker following, scrutinizing the newcomers.
The door opened again, and the assistant ushered in two people.
The first person Becker noticed was a tall blonde woman in a fitted business suit with black-rimmed glasses, looking extremely sharp and capable.
Behind her was a tall, robust man who at first glance seemed to be in his mid-twenties but seemed much more mature upon closer inspection.
Becker had seen many stars and was keenly observant. He immediately recognized this must be Matthew Horner and took a quick measure of him.
The man was broad-shouldered and long-legged, his fitted clothes revealing well-developed muscles and his facial features sharp and angular. The entire demeanor exuded toughness.
Moreover, Becker sensed a wildness in him, as if he were Tarzan returning to the civilized world, yet with an English education, polite but unable to fully mask his innate wildness.
"Hello, Ms. Herman," Schultz greeted, breaking Becker's concentration.
"Hello, Mr. Horner."
After exchanging handshakes and pleasantries, Becker was taken aback by the firmness of Matthew's handshake, which felt as if he were shaking hands with a seasoned outdoorsman.
Becker sat down without saying much, leaving Schultz to lead the conversation. His opinion was crucial, though.
Not speaking didn't mean he was inactive; Becker continuously observed Matthew. The fit between the spokesperson's image and the product's image was crucial. If they chose a delicate, effeminate type to represent the G-series, it would completely topple decades of brand image building.
Reassessing Matthew, Becker realized he had made a mistake in pre-judging him. Against his expectations, this young Hollywood star was very similar off-screen to his on-screen persona.
Rugged build, strong appearance, clear and tough lines...
The Hollywood star sitting opposite him was like a top-of-the-line human embodiment of the Mercedes G!
Becker's thoughts did a complete 180. Aside from his youth, Matthew Horner seemed even more suitable for the G-series than Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Though his
opinion changed, Becker, a seasoned businessman, remained composed and continued to assess the duo.
Matthew didn't speak much, with most of the conversation handled by his agent, Helen Herman. When he did speak, his words were cautious, displaying a maturity rare for his age.
His appearance was wild, yet not impulsive. There was a calm confidence about him, a perfect blend of the G-series' wild, tough, and enduring qualities.
The initial meeting ended quickly, and Matthew and Helen left.
Once they were gone, Becker said, "Sorry, Schultz, I was wrong before."
"That's okay," Schultz replied, sitting back down. "And now?"
"I've met Matthew Horner in person for the first time, and based on his image alone, he seems even more suitable for the G-series than Schwarzenegger."
Becker, showing the German attention to detail, added, "That's just my first impression. I withdraw my objections, but I think a systematic study and assessment are necessary."
Schultz nodded, "This relates to our brand strategy. Any rash decision is foolish. However, I agree with you; based on external image and temperament alone, Matthew Horner fits the G-series even better."
"I didn't expect such a unique young star to emerge from Hollywood's star-making factory," Becker suddenly laughed, perhaps self-mockingly. "Beyond his age in maturity, sharply defined features, a wild and strong temperament, and an uncommon steadiness in youth."
He sighed softly, "The only pity is that his fan base is primarily teenagers."
Schultz acknowledged, "That's Matthew Horner's biggest flaw, otherwise he'd be the perfect spokesperson for the G-series."
They exchanged a look and chuckled. If even the Mercedes G wasn't perfect, what in this world could be?
"Let's do this..." Schultz made a decision, "Start a comprehensive assessment of Matthew Horner as a spokesperson. Let half of the team focus on him, aiming for results around the New Year."
"Agreed!" Becker fully concurred. "Matthew Horner should be our top target."
They had already met Matt Damon in New York, but he was not a great fit; his appearance lacked sharpness, and his demeanor was too reserved.
Matthew and Helen got into their car, finally relaxing.
"How do you think it went?" he asked Helen.
After instructing the driver to head back to Burbank, Helen replied, "From what I observed, both Schultz and Becker seemed quite pleased with you."
Matthew leaned back, "All our preparation wasn't for nothing."
Upon receiving the news, he had met with Helen at Angel Management to prepare thoroughly. Such matters couldn't be rushed, much like a movie audition.
"What are our chances of landing the endorsement?" he inquired.
"Over fifty percent," Helen thought for a moment, "possibly even higher."
She cautioned Matthew, "The Germans will definitely conduct a strict evaluation. You're famous enough, but be careful not to mess up during this period."
Matthew waved his hand dismissively, "Don't worry, I know what's at stake."
It seemed things were progressing smoothly. By Christmas, Helen informed Matthew that Mercedes-Benz was ready to officially engage and negotiate his endorsement contract.
The initial negotiations were set for Los Angeles, with the final signing planned for Germany if all went well.
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