From perestroika to Pizza Hut

“The adverts with Gorbachev will be in the same light-hearted vein as the others,” the spokesman said. “But it is ironic that Gorbachev, who was once a Communist, is now working with this huge American company.”

Gorbachev will be paid more than $160,000 for the adverts, more than Pizza Hut paid to Pamela Anderson. The former president, who Margaret Thatcher once said she could “do business with”, will donate some of the proceeds to the Gorbachev Foundation, his political think-tank and charity.

The advert was filmed last month in the Moscow Pizza Hut not far from the Kremlin. Gary Haigh, Pizza Hut UK’s marketing director, said the advert will run in Britain after their first 1998 campaign — adverts starring the soccer coach Ruud Gullit.

Pizza Hut adverts have become something of a cause celebre in the advertising industry. Soccer players Gareth Southgate, Stuart Pearce and Chris Waddle, who have all missed crucial penalties for England, agreed to appear in one where they rue their misfortune.

Ex-politicians’ portfolio

George Bush — Agreed to do series of adverts for American Tourism Board. Strolling along a Californian golf course he asks the viewer: “What are you waiting for, an invitation from the President?”

Ronald Reagan — Turned down appearance in a Holsten Pils advert with bRITISH actor Griff Rhys Jones and a chimpanzee and has also declined offers for numerous cameo roles in Hollywood films.

Edward Heath — Although still a backbencher, the former British prime minister has dipped his toe in the ad world, appearing in a 10-second commercial for Blue Leicester cheese. The ad agency DMB & B described his performance as “terrific”.

John Major — Has yet to resort to adverts, although the former UK premier’s first lecture tour to America was marked by the half-empty hall which greeted his first speech.