The New York Times described him as "the agricultural visionary who all but single-handedly revolutionized the American popcorn industry".

[6] The New York Times described Redenbacher: "But for all his bumpkin appearance, the man with the signature white wavy hair and oversized bow tie was a shrewd agricultural scientist who experimented with hybrids.

"[1] He began his career selling fertilizer, but spent his spare time working with popcorn.

In 1951, Redenbacher and partner Charles F. Bowman bought the George F. Chester and Son seed corn plant in Boone Grove, Indiana.

In 1983, Esmark purchased Norton Simon, which in turn was acquired by Beatrice Foods in 1984.

[9] He appeared as the company's official spokesperson, wearing a trademark outfit in public that included horn-rimmed glasses and a bow tie.

[13] Aside from his contributions to the popcorn industry, he is noteworthy for his appearances on television, and in particular, his charismatic image in commercials.

[citation needed] The advertisements for the brand's "natural" popcorn snacks were introduced in 2008, 13 years after Redenbacher's death, and feature a clip of him at the end.

[17] On September 4, 2012, Valparaiso, Indiana, where Redenbacher resided for much of his life, unveiled a statue of him at the city's annual popcorn festival.