In an exciting twist just before the Kansas City Chiefs gear up for the NFL season, Travis Kelce and a lineup of football stars have stepped into the role of Roman gladiators for Pepsi’s latest campaign.
Gladiator II Meets NFL
The commercial is a nod to the upcoming release of Gladiator II, featuring a star-studded cast including Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn, and Connie Nielsen.
Set several decades after the original film, this new chapter brings ancient Rome back to life.
Pepsi cleverly timed the ad to coincide with the start of the NFL season, which kicks off on Thursday night with a game between the Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens.
Star-Studded Lineup
Alongside Kelce, the commercial features Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, Ravens running back Derrick Henry, and Minnesota Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson.
Adding a touch of glamour, rapper Megan Thee Stallion appears as the empress, setting the scene with tigers in the arena.
The Commercial Unfolds
The three-minute spot begins with two fans at a bar, chatting about their fantasy football teams and listing Kelce, Allen, Henry, and Jefferson as key players.
As they place their drinks, the iconic ‘stomp, stomp, clap’ from Queen’s “We Will Rock You” starts playing, and a Pepsi can transforms into a grand coliseum.
Kelce, Allen, Henry, and Jefferson make a dramatic entrance, clad in gladiator gear, to a roaring crowd.
Kelce’s battle cry, “Are you ready,” is followed by Megan Thee Stallion’s command to release the tigers.
The athletes use football moves to tackle the big cats while Megan raps a Queen classic.
Once the final beast is vanquished, Megan joins the group, grabs a Pepsi, and declares, “Let game day begin,” prompting everyone to raise their drinks in celebration.
A Throwback to Gladiator Ads
Pepsi has a history of gladiator-themed commercials.
Back in 2004, Beyoncé, Britney Spears, and Pink starred in a memorable ad with their rendition of “We Will Rock You,” while Enrique Iglesias played the Emperor.
That commercial aired during the Super Bowl between the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots.
What’s next for Pepsi and the NFL? Stay tuned for more exciting collaborations!
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