The character first appeared on American TV screens in 1967. Clay Jackson is the fourth person to portray the brand icon during its 40-year existence.

Jackson is the fourth person to portray the brand icon during its 40-year existence.  Jesse White, who retired in 1988 after playing the part for 21 years; Gordon Jump, who retired in 2003 after starring in the role for 15 years; and Hardy Rawls, who took Jump's place in 2003.

After a nationwide search, Maytag announced that Clay Jackson of Richmond, Va., will be the next Maytag Repairman. Maytag says Jackson will play a major role in revitalizing 100-year-old brand.

More than 1,500 people audition for the role during a two month talent search. According to Jackson, he decided to try out "on a whim" and attended the open audition in New York, focusing on bringing "something humorous and unexpected" to the character.

The search began the week of Feb. 12 in Los Angeles, Chicago and New York. More than 80 people were invited to the callbacks that took place during the week of March 5, and six people were invited to the final round of interviews during the week of March 12. The selection process was based on a variety of criteria including acting and spokesperson abilities and how well the person could personify the Maytag brand's tradition of dependability and quality and keep the brand and its advertising icon relevant.

Jackson was unanimously chosen by the brand's executive search team.

The character first appeared on American TV screens in 1967. Jackson is the fourth person to portray the brand icon during its 40-year existence.  Jesse White, who retired in 1988 after playing the part for 21 years; Gordon Jump, who retired in 2003 after starring in the role for 15 years; and Hardy Rawls, who took Jump's place in 2003..

"Clay is perfect for our new take on the role," said Jeff Davidoff, maytag's vice president, brand marketing and communications.

Starting in May 2007, the Maytag Repairman will appear in the new Maytag brand advertising campaign and will begin making appearances across North America.