Interviews
96-year-old gains popularity reciting Carnation milk “jingle” she heard when she was 12
Carnation heard it and has been treating her like a queen ever since.
Jessica Adler
01.03.24

Helen is a 96-year-old grandmother from Bloomfield, Iowa, who’s recently been accused of charming the internet with a simple, albeit nostalgic, act.

She’s reciting a Carnation milk jingle she first heard at the tender age of 12.

Though it’s been 84 years, Helen effortlessly recalls the jingle’s catchy tune.

What makes it so memorable? It’s got a humorous twist.

In fact, some have even called it a little “raunchy,” but Helen’s impeccable recital shows her vibrant spirit to be a quality that has endeared her to many.

YouTube - Inside Edition
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YouTube - Inside Edition

Helen’s journey with the jingle started in her youth, a time when radio and catchy tunes were a significant part of daily life.

The Carnation jingle, with its vivid imagery of a tin with a red and white band, and a playful take on farm chores, left an indelible mark on her young mind.

Interestingly, Helen chose not to share this jingle with her family for years, owing to its cheeky ending.

This little piece of history, tucked away in her memory, remained a personal treasure until recently.

The moment Helen decided to share the jingle with her daughters, it was a revelation.

The unexpected ending of the jingle surprised her daughters and created a wave of laughter and joy.

Is there a better bridge between generations than humor? We don’t think so.

YouTube - Inside Edition
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YouTube - Inside Edition

The internet wasn’t the only audience to catch wind of Helen’s recitation.

Carnation came across it, too, and revealed an intriguing backstory.

The jingle was actually a contest submission from the 1940s.

Although it was never used in their advertising due to its edgy humor, Carnation appreciated its creativity so much that they awarded the submitter $1,000.

Helen’s rendition brought this hidden gem back to life, much to the delight of the brand and her newfound fans.

YouTube - Inside Edition
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YouTube - Inside Edition

In a heartwarming gesture of appreciation, Carnation reached out to Helen with gifts and surprises.

They sent her flowers, Carnation swag, and even sponsored a holiday dinner for her, flying in family members for a reunion.

This act of kindness from Carnation not only honored Helen’s spirited rendition but also brought her closer to her loved ones, creating unforgettable memories.

YouTube - Inside Edition
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YouTube - Inside Edition

The surprises didn’t end there.

Carnation promised Helen $5,000, a sum she planned to use for a much-needed cause of fixing the sidewalk to her local pharmacy and beauty salon.

This practical use of the funds reflects Helen’s down-to-earth nature and her desire to improve her daily life.

Small acts can always make a significant impact… always.

YouTube - Inside Edition
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YouTube - Inside Edition

Helen’s daughters Shelly and Alice played a crucial role in sharing her story with the world.

Acknowledging Helen’s initial reluctance to put the clip on Facebook, they cleverly chose Instagram and TikTok instead.

This decision catapulted Helen to internet fame, bringing smiles and amusement to a wider audience.

The overwhelmingly positive response was a source of joy for Helen, who was both shocked and amused by the replies.

YouTube - Inside Edition
Source:
YouTube - Inside Edition

The partnership between Helen and Carnation has sparked anticipation for more fun surprises in 2024.

Helen’s newfound fame has not only brought her joy but also inspired her to continue making videos.

Her favorite recipes, like pumpkin pie and pecan candy made with Carnation milk, show off her culinary skills and her love for sharing them with others.

This collaboration is a beautiful blend of nostalgia, humor, and modern-day social media influence.

Helen’s stint in the limelight is a celebration of life, humor, and the joy of sharing memories.

Her advice is to have a sense of humor in order to live a long life, and that resonates with most of us.

Hear Hellen recite the old jingle that shot her to influencer fame in the video below!

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

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