Paul Marcarelli, the “can you hear me now?” guy featured in countless Verizon cell phone commercials, told reporters at The Atlantic that he is being phased out of the Verizon advertising campaign strategy.
Marcarelli won fame and household recognition as the Verizon Test Man, but insists that, while grateful for the financial security afforded by the job, he’s ready to move on with his career. “Don’t’ feel bad for me, but I’m definitely glad that chapter is over,” Marcareli said. “Most people my age are now trying to trade in their street cred for money, and I kind of made my money. I still want to make something of value.”
What’s next for the Verizon icon? After years of downplaying his sexuality due to fears of unwanted media attention and potential negative impact on his contract with Verizon, Marcarelli is out and eagerly anticipating the release of his movie, The Green, which is currently under consideration by various international film festivals. The film stars Jason Butler Harner and Julia Ormond, and tells the story of a gay couple in a small town who suffer when one of the men, a local schoolteacher, is accused of having an affair with a student.
