Get ready for a Super Bowl like no other! The 2026 edition promises to be a star-studded extravaganza, with athletes taking center stage both on the field and in the commercials. From iconic sports stars to Hollywood celebrities, this year's Super Bowl LX is shaping up to be a true spectacle.
But here's where it gets controversial: while some fans are all about the game, others tune in for the ads. Yes, you heard that right! The NFL's marquee game has become a platform for creative and expensive commercials, with 30-second slots fetching an average of $8 million, and some even surpassing $10 million.
So, what can we expect from the athletes-turned-actors in these commercials? Let's dive in and explore some of the top ads featuring our favorite sports stars.
Oakley's Star-Studded Cast Models Glasses of the Future
Oakley, a brand synonymous with sports and style, has enlisted a diverse range of athletes to showcase its innovative "Oakley Meta Performance AI glasses." From former Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch skydiving to skater Sky Brown, cyclist Kate Courtney, and golfer Akshay Bhatia showcasing their talents, this ad is a celebration of sports and technology. Internet personality iShowSpeed and filmmaker Spike Lee also make appearances, adding to the star power of this commercial.
A Lesson on the Links with Michelob Ultra
In the spirit of the Winter Olympics, Michelob Ultra takes us to the slopes with a ski-themed commercial. Actor Kurt Russell steps into the role of instructor, guiding actor Lewis Pullman through a ski race. After Pullman's defeat, Russell decides to train him, and the result is a thrilling backflip on skis, earning approval from Olympic snowboarding gold medalist Chloe Kim and Stanley Cup winner T.J. Oshie.
Peyton Manning Returns for Bud Light: A Keg of Fun
Two-time Super Bowl champion Peyton Manning is back with Bud Light, joined by comedian Shane Gillis and musician Post Malone. In a simple yet effective ad titled "Keg," the trio attends a wedding, where Manning describes his Bud Light as the "first beer of the wedding." Malone's question, "Is there enough for everyone?" sets off a hilarious chain of events as the keg takes an unexpected journey down a hill, leading to a comical chase involving the wedding party.
Tight Ends Unite for Prostate Cancer Awareness
Medicine company Novartis has assembled a group of current and former NFL tight ends to raise awareness about prostate cancer screening. From Jake Olson and Tony Gonzalez to George Kittle and Rob Gronkowski, these athletes are seen in relaxed states, accompanied by calming music. The commercial takes an educational turn when Super Bowl-winning head coach Bruce Arians explains the importance of a simple blood test for prostate cancer detection. To drive the point home, Arians asks Gronkowski to demonstrate, and "Gronk" does so by relaxing his tight end, leaving viewers with a memorable message.
Derrick Henry's Arm Talent on Display During a Trolley Tour
Trolley tours are an iconic part of the San Francisco experience, and Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry and actress Kathryn Hahn decided to join in on the fun. When their trolley struggles to climb a hill, Hahn hops out to give it a push. In a clever twist, she hands her Oikos to Henry, who delivers it back to her with a throw reminiscent of his quarterback, Lamar Jackson.
Serena Williams Shares Her Fitness Journey with Ro's GLP-1
Tennis legend Serena Williams returns to the Super Bowl ad scene, highlighting her health transformation, including a weight loss of 34 pounds, while using Ro's GLP-1. This ad is a powerful testament to Williams' dedication to her fitness journey and a reminder of the impact of a healthy lifestyle.
These commercials showcase the diverse talents of athletes beyond their sports, and they are sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
And this is the part most people miss: the impact of these ads goes beyond entertainment. They provide a platform for important causes, like prostate cancer awareness, and showcase the versatility of athletes as brand ambassadors.
So, what do you think? Are you more excited for the game or the commercials? And is there a particular ad that caught your attention? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
