2014 Clio Awards showcases best work in advertising, design and communications in NYC

The 55th annual Clio Awards was held on Wednesday night in New York City, capping off an innovate year for the industry. Coinciding with Advertising Week, the night was hosted by comedienne Whoopi Goldberg, who set the tone for an energetic evening full of one-liners and off-script moments.

Grand Clio Awards were handed out in nine categories with winning agencies taking the stage. The Leo Burnett and the Proctor & Gamble – Always team received the biggest ovation of the night for their Public Relations project “Like a Girl” that focuses on empowering young women. 

“A huge congratulations is in order for all the 2014 Clio Award winners,” says Nicole Purcell, Executive Vice President of the Clio Awards. “Last night was a culmination of a year’s worth of hard work, innovation and excellence in our industry. With great moments like Blondie’s playful acceptance speech – complete with a ‘selfie’ Debbie Harry and Chris Stein took with Whoopi Goldberg, it was a true celebration!”

The most anticipated speech of the night was Jerry Seinfeld’s, receiving an Honorary Clio Award for his longstanding contributions that push boundaries. Seinfeld did not disappoint, with an acceptance speech turned comedy routine. Seinfeld thanked American Express and Ogilvy & Mather for getting him in the game years ago – all the while playfully chastising the industry and just what it means to be an advertiser and win a Clio Award.

In the Clio Music segment, a new program this year, Clio Music and Billboard presented three exclusive song charts that rank the impact of advertisements on song popularity, powered by Shazam. Singer Aloe Blacc, topped the Breakthrough chart with “The Man” for Beats by Dr. Dre, and performed the hit single during the ceremony.

Deborah Harry and Chris Stein, in the midst of 40th anniversary celebrations for their iconic band Blondie, took home an Honorary Clio Music award.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Washington Olivetto, chairman of WMcCann and chief creative officer of McCann Worldgroup for Latin America and Caribbean. In the most moving portion of the night, Olivetto thanked all that have helped him along the way, life-long friends, his team members and family.

Festivities continued into the evening with an after-party featuring DJ Kiss and performance by Brazilian artist Thiago.