It seems like every Super Bowl brings a new set of commercials that become instant classics. You know, the ones you watch over and over again, quoting the lines to everyone you know. In 2016, one commercial in particular stole the show: the “Kick of Destiny” ad featuring Rob Gronkowski. The commercial was so unexpected, so hilarious, and so utterly Gronk that it quickly became a viral sensation. It turned out to be one of the most talked-about moments of the entire Super Bowl weekend.
Image: www.sportingnews.com
What made this commercial so special? Was it the humor, the Gronk factor, or something else entirely? Let’s take a closer look at what made the “Kick of Destiny” commercial such a massive hit, discussing the creative strategy behind it and what its impact was.
The Power of Gronk
Rob Gronkowski, the tight end for the New England Patriots, is arguably the most popular athlete in NFL history. His ability to dominate on the field, paired with his larger-than-life personality and knack for entertaining, made him a fan favorite. Even people who don’t follow football know who “Gronk” is. He’s simply a fun-loving guy who isn’t afraid to be himself, and that’s why he’s so relatable. His reputation for being the life of the party, both on and off the field, made him a perfect fit for a humorous commercial.
The ad featured Gronkowski getting ready to kick a field goal, only to be interrupted by a series of increasingly absurd distractions. The humor is physical and slapstick, perfectly in line with Gronkowski’s image. The commercial was a perfect blend of football and comedy, and he played his role expertly. His ability to both deliver on his athleticism and comedic timing turned it into a successful campaign.
Why The “Kick of Destiny” Commercial Hit the Mark
The “Kick of Destiny” commercial is a great example of how to create a successful Super Bowl advertisement. It was funny, engaging, and memorable, but it wasn’t just randomness thrown together. There was real strategy involved.
Here are some of the key elements that made the commercial so effective:
- Humor: The commercial was full of slapstick humor, which is always a crowd-pleaser. The distractions Gronk faces before his kick were totally over-the-top and hilarious, especially for a football ad.
- Celebrity Endorsement: Gronkowski’s name recognition and popularity added a huge dose of credibility to the ad. Plus he was a natural in front of the camera.
- Strong Call to Action: The ad cleverly promoted the product, Mountain Dew Kickstart, by tying it to football. The commercial made viewers crave a refreshing drink during the game.
- Timing: The ad was well-timed, as it aired during a time when people were looking for a laugh. Football fans were ready to be entertained during the game and Gronk delivered.
This commercial was a winning formula from beginning to end, blending the right amount of humor and sports, while showcasing Gronkowski’s talent and personality.
The Aftermath of the Kick of Destiny:
The impact of the “Kick of Destiny” ad was far-reaching. The commercial went viral, generating millions of views on YouTube and social media. People shared it, quoted lines from it, and it even led to real-world imitations.
The massive success of the commercial helped to boost Mountain Dew Kickstart sales, demonstrating that Super Bowl ads can have a huge impact on brand awareness and consumer behavior. The “Kick of Destiny” ad is often cited as an example of a successful Super Bowl commercial, highlighting the importance of humor, celebrity endorsement, and a strong call to action.
Image: heavy.com
Tips & Expert Advice
Applying The “Gronk” Principles to Market Your Brand
There are a few key lessons you can take away from the “Kick of Destiny” commercial that you can apply to your own marketing efforts.
- Know Your Audience: Just like the Mountain Dew Kickstart team understood that football fans loved a good laugh, you need to know your audience and what works for them. What kind of content do they enjoy? What are they passionate about?
- Be Creative And Think Outside the Box: The “Kick of Destiny” commercial was surprising, unexpected, and funny. Don’t be afraid to take risks and be creative in your marketing.
- Utilize Humor: Humor is a great way to connect with audiences and make your brand more memorable. But remember, humor can be subjective, so try to find a style that fits your brand and your audience.
- Embrace Partnerships: Gronkowski’s presence helped attract viewers and add an element of excitement to the ad. Consider collaborating with influencers or other brands to reach a wider audience.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Be Bold: Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries and go for it. If you’re not sure, try something small and see what the response is.
FAQ
Q: Who directed the “Kick of Destiny” commercial?
A: The “Kick of Destiny” commercial was directed by Bryan Buckley, who is known for his work on Super Bowl ads for brands like Snickers, Nationwide, and Budweiser.
Q: Was Gronkowski really going to kick a field goal?
A: No, there was no real field goal attempt to be seen as the commercial was meant to be funny and a bit over-the-top, not a serious display of Gronk’s athletic abilities.
Q: What does “Kick of Destiny” refer to?
A: The commercial plays on the idea that any given game could be a player’s “kick of destiny” – that one play could change his entire life.
Q: Are there any other famous NFL commercials featuring Gronk?
A: Yes, in 2017, Gronkowski appeared in a popular commercial for Papa John’s Pizza. The commercial features Gronk in his own pizza shop, which he names “Gronk’s Pizza.”
Rob Gronkowski Kick Of Destiny Commercial
Conclusion:
The “Kick of Destiny” commercial is a prime example of how to create successful Super Bowl advertising. It was funny, memorable, and went viral, earning a spot in Super Bowl history. If you’re looking for inspiration for your own marketing campaigns, consider the elements that made this commercial a hit and try to incorporate them into your own strategies.
Are you interested in learning more about marketing strategies used in Super Bowl commercials?
