Super Bowl LXI is shaping up to be a spectacle not just for football fans, but for entertainment enthusiasts as well. As the big game approaches on , the advertising landscape is already heating up, promising a blend of blockbuster movie trailers and star-studded commercials that often steal the show. This year’s lineup includes a mix of established brands and exciting new ventures, signaling a continued trend of significant investment in Super Bowl ad space.
The cost of securing a 30-second slot during Super Bowl LXI has reached a record-breaking $10 million, a testament to the event’s unparalleled reach and cultural impact. This figure underscores the value advertisers place on capturing the attention of a massive live audience, a dynamic that has transformed Super Bowl commercials from simple interruptions into highly anticipated events in their own right. The evolution from modest placements in 1967 to today’s multi-million dollar investments highlights the game’s growing significance as a cultural touchstone.
Among the commercials already generating buzz is a return from Budweiser, continuing its long-standing tradition with a patriotic spot featuring the iconic Clydesdale horses. This year’s iteration takes a uniquely American turn, pairing the majestic horses with a bald eagle, all set to the soundtrack of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Freebird.” The ad aims to evoke a sense of national pride and nostalgia, a formula Budweiser has successfully employed for decades.
Perhaps one of the most unexpected and intriguing commercials comes from Universal Studios Hollywood, promoting their new Fast & Furious-inspired roller coaster. The spot promises a thrilling experience that captures the high-octane energy of the franchise, and the coaster itself is slated to expand to Universal Orlando Resort in 2027. This cross-promotional effort demonstrates the increasing synergy between film and theme park attractions, leveraging the popularity of established intellectual property to drive attendance and engagement.
Beyond the commercials, the Super Bowl LXI lineup includes trailers for several highly anticipated films. Fans of the Super Mario franchise will be treated to a new look at The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, while horror enthusiasts can anticipate a chilling glimpse into Scream 7. The trailer for Scream 7 appears to echo themes from the original Scream 3, hinting at a long-planned revenge plot involving the returning character of Stu Macher, played by Matthew Lillard. The return of Lillard has already generated significant excitement among fans of the series.
Other notable commercials include a playful jab from Pepsi at Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, continuing the decades-long “cola wars” with a lighthearted taste test featuring a polar bear. TurboTax is also entering the fray with a commercial featuring Adrien Brody, who humorously pokes fun at his own serious persona. Squarespace is taking a more artistic approach, with a commercial directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and starring Emma Stone, who playfully laments the fact that someone else registered her name as a domain. The ad serves as a clever reminder to secure your online identity before someone else does.
Adding to the eclectic mix, Instacart’s commercial, featuring Benson Boone and a disco-themed flipping competition, has drawn attention for its sheer absurdity. While it may not directly promote the grocery delivery service, it certainly aims to capture viewers’ attention with its over-the-top visuals and energetic performance. Manscaped, meanwhile, is opting for a more unconventional approach with a commercial featuring a singing choir of pubic hair – a choice that is sure to spark conversation.
Kellogg’s Raisin Bran is also joining the advertising lineup with a commercial featuring William Shatner, playing on the actor’s iconic persona to promote the benefits of fiber. The ad cleverly utilizes Shatner’s recognizable image and delivery to create a memorable and humorous message.
The entertainment doesn’t stop with the commercials and trailers. Bad Bunny’s highly anticipated halftime show, sponsored by Apple Music, adds another layer of star power to the event. While technically an advertisement for the streaming service, the performance is expected to be a major draw for viewers, further solidifying the Super Bowl’s position as a premier platform for entertainment and marketing.
As Super Bowl LXI draws closer, more commercials and trailers are expected to be released, promising an even more comprehensive and captivating advertising lineup. The event continues to demonstrate its ability to attract major brands and entertainment properties, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon that transcends the realm of sports.
