(Bloomberg) – Technology companies often lean on celebrity appearances to build buzz for their glitzy product events, and Microsoft has traditionally been one of the worst offenders. But for the Windows 10 launch on July 29, the company made a conscious decision to eschew a big-budget keynote with lamely scripted visits by starlets and rockers. Given past results, that’s probably a good call.
Microsoft couldn’t bring itself to completely swear off celebrities. The company will host big-name athletes, such as USA women’s soccer champion Megan Rapinoe, at some of its stores around the U.S. But Microsoft’s decision to spare us from another uncomfortable bro hug from Ryan Seacrest in front of a large audience is cause for celebration. So here are eight of the most awkward onstage performances by celebrities and executives at tech conferences.