[Courtesy Photo]
The 2024 Super Bowl transcended its role as the pinnacle of American football to spotlight the cultural zeitgeist, with commercials becoming as eagerly anticipated as the game itself. This year’s ads were a testament to diversity and star power, particularly showcasing the talents of black celebrities who brought their unique flair to millions of viewers worldwide.
Beyoncé’s collaboration with Verizon was one of the most buzzworthy moments of the night. Not merely content with a cameo, the music icon leveraged the platform to tease new music, intertwining entertainment with technology and showcasing the prowess of Verizon’s 5G network. This strategic move highlighted the evolving landscape of Super Bowl commercials, where ads are not just seen but experienced, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
Adding to the humor and unexpected twists of the night, Eric Andre appeared in a commercial for Drumstick®, the Original Sundae Cone. Known for his comedic genius, Andre brought his signature style to the ad, engaging viewers with a mix of surprise and laughter. This approach underlines a shift towards ads that not only sell but also entertain, reflecting a broader trend in advertising that values creativity and engagement.
BMW took a different route, blending humor with star appeal in their latest commercial featuring Christopher Walken. The ad took a playful jab at the actor’s distinctive style, further enriched by a cameo from Usher. This clever mix of celebrity and humor underscored the ad’s memorable nature, demonstrating how big brands are increasingly relying on star power and creative storytelling to connect with their audience.
Dunkin’ also made waves with a star-studded commercial featuring Fat Joe, Jennifer Lopez, and Ben Affleck. The ad’s humor, centered around Affleck’s attempts to impress Lopez, showcased the brand’s ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist, making it relatable and memorable. The inclusion of such high-profile celebrities speaks to the Super Bowl’s unique ability to merge advertising with pop culture, creating moments that are discussed long after the game is over.
Emerging talent, such as Ice Spice, also found a platform in this year’s Super Bowl ads, highlighting the event’s role in showcasing a diverse range of voices and talents. While details of her participation were less specific, her presence emphasized the inclusivity and breadth of Super Bowl advertising, offering a launchpad for new artists to gain exposure on one of the world’s biggest stages.
The 2024 Super Bowl commercials were more than just breaks in the game; they were a celebration of diversity, creativity, and the power of celebrity. From Beyoncé’s musical tease to Eric Andre’s comedic antics, these ads captured the essence of what makes the Super Bowl a cultural phenomenon. By leveraging the star power of black celebrities and blending it with innovative storytelling, this year’s commercials not only entertained but also enriched the Super Bowl experience, underscoring the event’s enduring appeal and its role as a mirror to contemporary culture.
