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Ben Wagner may be out as Blue Jays' play-by-play broadcaster and Rick Campanelli is no longer with ET Canada. But both still have at least a small income thanks to their side hustle.
What is it? They're two of hundreds of celebrities (and sometimes not quite celebrities) who will record a short personal message to a family member or a friend for a fee. The amount you pay depends entirely on the status of the star involved with at least two asking as much as $500 for the 30 secs. or so video message. (I have to admit the duo asking for that exorbitant sum are a pair I've never heard of.)
Only one celeb wants way more. Would you pay $2,500 for a short personal greeting from Caitlyn Jenner?
So what do Ben and Rick make for each one of these words to your loved one? The now ex-Jay announcer wants $30 for a personal video message. The former Rick The Temp charges $35.
It's a service called Cameo and there are literally hundreds of famous people (and not-so-famous) offering their faces and voices to give a special surprise to someone. They range from athletes to TV and movie stars, comedians and musicians to online influencers. Topics run from birthday greetings to advice, a pep talk and even a roast.
I'm not entirely sure if this odd business is worth the while of some of these people, but since you write the script for them and it's only a couple of dollars for such a short time, I suppose they can earn an extra few bucks. But what a weird thing for someone even partially well known to do.
Still, in Wagner's case, now that he's out of work, I'm sure he can use the extra money.
Cameo website
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Just noticed this one - Peter Asher, of Peter & Gordon fame and a producer of some of the best albums of the 70s, including many from James Taylor and Linda Ronstadt. He's not cheap - each greeting costs $266. Wonder if you can get him to produce it for you, too?
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I'm guessing just anyone could easily make money doing this.
Throw on a costume and...ta da!
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I'm so disappointed. Taylor Swift is not there.
But Jack Armstrong is. Get dat gahbidge outta heah!!