The 15 Best Super Bowl Commercials of All Time – Including Hidden Gems You Forgot About!
As the excitement of Super Bowl LIX unfolds today, fans are not only eager to witness the clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles but also to experience the highly anticipated commercials that have become a hallmark of this event. This year, advertisers have invested a staggering $8 million for a 30-second spot, underscoring the immense value placed on captivating the Super Bowl audience.
Reflecting on the rich history of Super Bowl advertising, several commercials have transcended the game, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. Here are 15 of the most iconic Super Bowl commercials of all time:
1. Apple’s “1984” (1984)
In a groundbreaking move, Apple introduced the Macintosh computer with a dystopian-themed commercial directed by Ridley Scott. The ad depicted a heroine disrupting a totalitarian regime, symbolizing Apple’s challenge to the status quo. This commercial is often credited with revolutionizing Super Bowl advertising.
2. Coca-Cola’s “Hey Kid, Catch!” (1979, aired 1980)
This heartwarming ad featured NFL star “Mean” Joe Greene receiving a Coke from a young fan, leading to a rare smile and the gifting of his jersey. The simple yet touching narrative resonated with audiences and remains a classic.
3. Wendy’s “Where’s the Beef?” (1984)
Wendy’s took a direct shot at its competitors with this ad, featuring an elderly woman questioning the size of the meat in rival burgers. The catchphrase became a cultural phenomenon, highlighting Wendy’s commitment to quality.
4. Budweiser’s Frogs (1995)
Budweiser introduced three croaking frogs—”Bud,” “Weis,” and “Er”—in a swamp setting. Their rhythmic croaks formed the brand’s name, creating a simple yet memorable advertisement that captivated viewers.
5. Pepsi’s Cindy Crawford Ad (1992)
Supermodel Cindy Crawford starred in this ad, where two young boys admire a new Pepsi can design, initially appearing to be admiring Crawford herself. The twist added humor and effectively showcased the brand’s new look.
6. Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” (2010)
Old Spice revitalized its image with this fast-paced, humorous ad featuring Isaiah Mustafa. The commercial’s witty monologue and rapid scene changes made it an instant hit, leading to a successful rebranding campaign.
7. Volkswagen’s “The Force” (2011)
A young boy dressed as Darth Vader attempts to use “The Force” around his home, finally succeeding when his father uses a remote to start their Volkswagen Passat. The ad’s blend of nostalgia and humor struck a chord with audiences.
8. Snickers’ “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry” (2010)
Featuring Betty White playing football, this ad humorously illustrated the concept that hunger can change one’s behavior. The memorable tagline became central to Snickers’ branding.
9. E*TRADE’s Talking Baby (2008)
E*TRADE used a talking baby to demystify online trading, making it seem accessible and straightforward. The juxtaposition of an infant discussing finance added a humorous and memorable twist.
10. Always’ “Like a Girl” (2015)
This impactful ad challenged gender stereotypes by redefining what it means to do something “like a girl.” The empowering message resonated deeply, sparking conversations about self-confidence and societal expectations.
11. Doritos’ “Crash the Super Bowl” Campaign (2006-2016)
Doritos invited fans to create their own commercials, with the best airing during the Super Bowl. This innovative approach led to a series of humorous and creative ads, engaging consumers directly in the brand’s marketing.
12. Budweiser’s “Puppy Love” (2014)
This heartwarming ad showcased the bond between a Labrador puppy and a Clydesdale horse, highlighting themes of friendship and loyalty. The emotional narrative captivated viewers, making it one of Budweiser’s most beloved commercials.
13. Google’s “Parisian Love” (2009)
Telling a love story through a series of Google searches, this ad demonstrated how the search engine plays a role in everyday life. The simple yet powerful narrative showcased the utility and emotional resonance of the product.
14. Chrysler’s “Halftime in America” (2012)
Narrated by Clint Eastwood, this ad drew parallels between halftime in a football game and America’s economic challenges, delivering a message of resilience and hope. The cinematic approach and poignant narration left a lasting impact.
15. Amazon’s “Alexa Loses Her Voice” (2018)
When Alexa loses her voice, celebrities like Gordon Ramsay and Cardi B step in as replacements, leading to humorous interactions. The star-studded ad entertained viewers while highlighting Alexa’s capabilities.
As we enjoy today’s game and its accompanying advertisements, it’s evident that Super Bowl commercials have evolved into a cultural phenomenon, reflecting societal trends, humor, and values. These iconic ads not only entertain but also encapsulate unforgettable moments in time, reminding us of the power of storytelling in marketing.
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