On November 20, 2023, actor Jason Thompson celebrated his birthday in a memorable way, thanks to his friend and co-star Michelle Stafford. Rather than the typical tributes common in the soap opera world, Stafford surprised fans with a unique birthday post that sparked a wave of nostalgia for the 1990s. The post featured clips from Thompson’s early career, notably his appearances in Gap commercials.
Throwback to the ’90s
Stafford unearthed two vintage clips from Gap’s 1999 advertising campaign showcasing a youthful Thompson. In one memorable spot titled “Everybody in Vests,” he can be seen singing lines from Madonna’s 1984 classic “Dress You Up.” The second clip, from a commercial called “Everybody in Cords,” features Thompson performing a snippet of Donovan’s 1967 hit “Mellow Yellow.”
In her enthusiastic Instagram post, Stafford wrote, “Yes yes!!!! Say Happy Birthday to @myjasonthompson (these came up in my feed a couple months ago!! Been waiting to post!!)” The throwback clips not only delighted fans but also showcased Thompson’s impressive singing talent, which took many by surprise.
Reactions from Friends and Fans
The birthday tribute quickly gained traction within the soap opera community. Fellow cast members from both The Young and the Restless and General Hospital expressed their admiration. Tracey E. Bregman simply wrote “Happy birthday,” while Finola Hughes remarked that she had no idea Thompson possessed such vocal abilities. Actor Marc Anthony Samuel chimed in, sharing that he too had previously filmed a Gap commercial.
Thompson himself responded to the post with humor, stating, “Haha!! They call me ‘Old Yeller.’ Thank you, Stafford!! And everyone else here for the bday wishes!!” His lighthearted reaction underscored the camaraderie shared among cast members.
Thompson’s birthday celebration resonated widely on social media, capturing not only the nostalgia of the past but also highlighting his journey from a young commercial singer to one of the most beloved stars in daytime television. The clips serve as a reminder of how far he has come, bringing joy to fans and colleagues alike.
As the soap universe continues to evolve, moments like these remind audiences of the personal connections that exist behind the scenes, creating a vibrant community of support and nostalgia.
