10 Fascinating Facts About Super Bowl Commercials
Uncovering the Secrets Behind the Most Memorable Ads in Sports History
When the Super Bowl rolls around, it’s not just about what’s happening on the field—it’s also the commercials that steal the spotlight! Over the years, these ads have evolved into a cultural phenomenon, with brands going all-out to create unforgettable moments that keep viewers talking long after the final whistle. From jaw-dropping price tags to iconic, heart-stopping scenes, Super Bowl commercials are a spectacle in the American viewers’ eyes. Ready to huddle into some mind-blowing facts? Here are 10 things you might not know about these legendary ads!
1. A Sky-High Price Tags
A 30-second ad during the Super Bowl can set companies back around $7 million as of 2024. This steep price reflects the massive viewership the game draws, making it one of the most coveted spots for advertisers worldwide. “The high demand seems to have pushed prices to a record in 2025, with a few ad spots reportedly selling for $8m-plus for 30 seconds. Last year, a 30-second spot went for around a reported $7m. (The Guardian)
2. Red Carpet Galore
Super Bowl ads are a prime opportunity for brands to feature celebrities, with everyone from Matthew McConaughey to Beyoncé making appearances over the years. These stars attract attention and add to the ad’s cultural impact.
3. The Start of a Tradition
The very first Super Bowl ad aired back in 1967 during the inaugural game. It was for a military helicopter called “The Eagle”—a far cry from the elaborate, high-budget commercials we see today!
4. Super Bowl Ads Have Their Own Awards
While the players compete for the Vince Lombardi Trophy, advertisers also have their own competition. The Clio Awards and the Cannes Lions recognize the best creative ads each year, and many Super Bowl commercials are in the running. Some of the most iconic spots, like Apple’s “1984” ad, have gone on to win big at these prestigious events,
solidifying their place in advertising history. What is one of the most talked about Super Bowl ads you might ask? Look no further than the award winning “E*Trade Baby.”
– “Everybody loves babies. Everybody loves making money. So it follows that everyone should love watching a baby make money, right? In 2008, E*Trade found the answer to this question to be a resounding yes with their Super Bowl commercial, “E*Trade Baby. Clio assembled a roster of ad execs and pop culture experts to break down this wacky ad
and why this talking baby was universally loved.” (Clios)
5. Some Super Bowl Ads Are Secretly Teased for Months
While most brands release their ads just before the game, some companies start teasing their Super Bowl spots months in advance, creating a sense of anticipation and intrigue. For example, Old Spice and Doritos are known for dropping cryptic hints or mini trailers leading up to the big day. It’s all part of the strategy to make their commercials a part of the conversation well before the first kick-off!
6. Big Brands, Big Impact
Major companies like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Toyota are no strangers to Super Bowl advertising. These brands have been dominating the commercial space for decades, understanding the power of the game’s enormous audience.
7. Super Bowl Ads Can Take Months to Create
Creating a Super Bowl commercial is no small feat! In fact, the process can take several months of planning, brainstorming, and production. Brands usually start working on their spots 6-9 months before the game, carefully crafting the perfect message, story, and visuals to capture the attention of millions. The creative teams work alongside directors, writers, and even special effects teams to ensure every detail is flawless. Given the high stakes, many brands even run test screenings to get feedback before the big reveal!
8. Creative Playground
The Super Bowl has become a place for advertisers to go all out with creativity. From mind-blowing special effects to groundbreaking storytelling, these ads push the envelope in ways you don’t see in other formats.
9. Boosting Recognition
There’s no denying that Super Bowl ads are a major investment—but they work. Studies show that brands often see a significant increase in both brand awareness and product sales following their high-profile Super Bowl debut. “For example, Budweiser‘s sales revenue in the short run after the Super Bowl is about 15.75 percent higher per household than for their competitors, according to the research.” (Stanford Business)
10. Comedy Is King
Humor plays a major role in many Super Bowl ads. Memorable campaigns such as Doritos’ “Dinamita” Super Bowl LVIII commercial, have shown that funny, quirky commercials tend to leave the longest-lasting impressions with viewers.
So, when all is said and done, Super Bowl commercials have become an inseparable part of the big game. They’re not just ads—they’re unforgettable experiences that get us laughing, reminiscing, and sometimes even debating. From laugh-out-loud humor to emotional punches, these commercials continue to steal the show, ensuring that the buzz sticks around long after the final play.
Sources:
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/jan/29/30-second-ad-slots-for-super-bowl-reported-to-b
e-selling-for-8m-plus-in-us
https://clios.com/superbowlclassics
https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/do-super-bowl-ads-really-work
https://www.statista.com/topics/8999/super-bowl-advertising-in-the-us/#topicOverview
Photo Source:
https://www.canva.com/photos/MAF6mje1S50/
