The Best Super Bowl Commercials of All Time

Betty White (Snickers)

In 2010, Snickers capitalized on Betty White’s popularity with a hilarious football-themed ad. The Golden Girls star played a game of football with a group of guys, and when she takes a hard tackle and falls into the mud, her witty response, ‘Oh come on, man. You’ve been riding me all day!’ steals the show. The ad kickstarted Snickers’ ‘You’re not you when you’re hungry’ campaign, propelling the candy bar to the top of the market.

Frogs (Budweiser)

Budweiser’s iconic ‘Frogs’ commercial from Super Bowl XXIX in 1995 introduced a trio of rhythmically croaking frogs. The ad became so popular that it sparked a moral panic, with groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving claiming the frogs were too appealing to children. The frogs eventually retired, but for a moment, they were more recognizable to kids than famous mascots like Ronald McDonald.

Puppy Love (Budweiser)

Tugging at the heartstrings, Budweiser’s 2014 commercial featuring Clydesdales and an adorable puppy became an instant tearjerker. The heartwarming story of the horse and the puppy, along with a happy ending, resonated with viewers, making it a standout Super Bowl ad.

Like a Girl (Procter & Gamble’s Always)

In 2015, Procter & Gamble’s Always challenged gender stereotypes with their ‘Like a Girl’ ad. By asking people to demonstrate what it means to run, fight, or throw ‘like a girl,’ the ad exposed the harmful stereotypes associated with being female. The ad features young girls who confidently defy those stereotypes, proving that being a girl has nothing to do with limitations.

When I Grow Up (Monster.com)

Monster.com’s thought-provoking 1999 ad took a different approach by showing children speaking directly to the camera about their aspirations. Instead of aspiring to traditional careers, the kids express a desire to climb the corporate ladder and embrace middle management. The ad resonated with viewers and led to a significant increase in traffic to Monster.com.

Halftime in America (Chrysler)

Chrysler’s 2012 Super Bowl ad, narrated by Clint Eastwood, focused on the recovery efforts of the U.S. car industry following the Great Recession. The ad’s message extended beyond the auto industry, aiming to inspire the entire nation. The commercial generated controversy in political circles but garnered high viewership.

Hare Jordan (Nike)

In 1992, Nike teamed up with basketball legend Michael Jordan and beloved cartoon character Bugs Bunny for a memorable ad. The commercial, which eventually inspired the movie Space Jam, featured Jordan and Bugs Bunny showcasing their skills and ended with a promise of a beautiful friendship.

The Force (Volkswagen)

Volkswagen’s 2011 ad combined Star Wars and Super Bowl excitement, making it an instant hit. The charming ad depicts a young boy dressed as Darth Vader attempting to use the Force. When his father remotely starts the car, the boy believes he has successfully used his powers. The ad’s success prompted the trend of releasing commercials online before the Super Bowl.

Hey Kid, Catch! (Coca-Cola)

Coca-Cola’s 1980 Super Bowl ad, featuring Pittsburgh Steelers’ ‘Mean Joe’ Greene, left a lasting impression. The commercial shows a young fan offering Greene a Coke, and in return, the football player tosses his jersey to the kid. The ad’s impact was so significant that it inspired a TV special.

1984 (Apple)

Apple’s groundbreaking 1984 Super Bowl commercial for the Macintosh computer remains one of the most influential ads of all time. Directed by Ridley Scott, the ad presents a dystopian future inspired by George Orwell’s novel. A vibrant runner defies conformity by shattering a giant telescreen, symbolizing Apple’s vision for the future. The ad’s impact continues to resonate, even in today’s digital age.

Conclusion

Super Bowl commercials have become a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with their humor, emotion, and thought-provoking messages. From Betty White’s comedic talent to Apple’s iconic 1984 ad, these commercials have left a lasting impact on viewers. As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, we eagerly await the next batch of unforgettable ads that will captivate the nation.