The Super Bowl is more than just a football game. It’s a cultural event that draws millions of viewers each year, many of whom are just as excited about the commercials as they are about the game itself. Advertisers know this and often use the occasion to premiere high-impact ads.
They spend millions for just 30 seconds of airtime. Some of the most unforgettable Super Bowl commercials have left a lasting impression. Apple set the tone with its groundbreaking “1984” ad, directed by Ridley Scott.
It featured a dystopian scene where a woman symbolized rebellion by destroying a screen depicting “Big Brother.”
Budweiser has had several memorable ads over the years. The Budweiser Frogs commercial in 1995 featured frogs croaking “Bud,” “Weis,” “Er.” It became an instant hit. In 2000, the “Wassup!” commercial became a cultural phenomenon with its catchphrase dominating pop culture.
Michael Jordan’s collaborations with Bugs Bunny for Nike in the ’90s also left an enormous impact. In “Hare Jordan,” they teamed up to battle Marvin the Martian.
Unforgettable Super Bowl ad moments
These ads were so successful they eventually led to the “Space Jam” movie. Coca-Cola’s “Hey Kid, Catch” ad from 1979 is a prime example of the company’s mastery of sentimental advertising. A young fan shares his Coke with NFL star “Mean Joe” Greene, who tosses him his jersey in gratitude.
ETrade’s talking baby commercials were both humorous and impactful. The 2013 spot focused on financial advice in a simple, memorable way. Not all Super Bowl ads are successful though.
Nationwide’s 2015 ad, featuring a young boy who discusses all the milestones he will never reach because he died in a household accident, was widely criticized for its dark and somber tone. GoDaddy’s 2009 ad was also controversial for its crude humor. As brands continue to innovate, we can expect more memorable moments in the years to come.
A standout ad already drawing attention ahead of Super Bowl LIX is Budweiser’s “First Delivery,” which features a determined foal aspiring to join the iconic Clydesdale hitch. Super Bowl commercials have become an event within an event, setting cultural milestones and often outshining the game itself. They provide a showcase of the latest trends and creative approaches in advertising.
