NY welcomes Frankie Focus as their disruptive icon for the new cell phone ban campaign

In a bid to emphasize the importance of mindfulness and safety in public schools, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has introduced a new mascot named Frankie Focus. The neon-green, shaggy-haired character, reminiscent of those at professional sporting events, is part of a statewide public-service campaign called "Team Phone Free."

Frankie Focus, characterized by bulging, unblinking blue eyes and fleshy elf ears, made his first appearance on the first day of school at M.S. 582 in East Williamsburg. He was unveiled last week at a Brooklyn middle school, and a photo of him leaning against a tree on Empire State Plaza, with the caption "nature is lowkey gorgeous bro," was recently posted on his social media.

The casting call for the Frankie Focus mascot role was posted on various actor websites last month by the talent agency T Creatives Casting. Candidates had to be between 5'5" and 5'9" tall, with specific shoe sizes, and needed high energy and physical stamina. The role was non-speaking, and the performer would be required to perform in a full-body mascot costume.

Actors were asked to submit short videos miming a scene where they get their friend's attention, as the friend was about to cross the street while distracted by their phone. The casting call encouraged actors to "find the physical, comedic moments" in the scene and to "keep it simple, short and clear."

While Frankie Focus will be played more often by volunteers, according to a spokesperson for Governor Hochul, non-union performers aged 21-45 in the New York City, Buffalo, and Rochester areas can expect to earn $300 per event, minus a 10% agency fee, and travel reimbursement.

Frankie Focus is described as a fun, silly, slightly chaotic character with a heart in the right place. He hates seeing someone on their phone and is being utilized for most of his appearances and photo-ops by volunteers. His nascent social-media presence reflects his mission to promote mindfulness and safety in schools.

The New York State Office of General Services, working on behalf of Governor Hochul, oversaw the development of the Frankie Focus mascot. Frankie Focus is the only one of the campaign's characters to be brought to life as a full-size mascot. His introduction aims to reinforce the state's ban on smartphone use in public schools and encourage students to stay focused and safe.