Pepsi has recently launched their new advertising campaign titled “Make Your Gameday Epic,” a campaign that pays homage to their iconic “Roman Empire” TV spot from nearly 20 years ago. This time around, the commercial features the talented Megan Thee Stallion as Empress Megan, alongside NFL superstars Josh Allen, Derrick Henry, Justin Jefferson, and Travis Kelce. The spot is set to fire up the start of the new NFL season and is sure to excite fans of both music and football.
The campaign draws inspiration from the upcoming film Gladiator II and has been produced by Ridley Scott Associates and Paramount Brand Studio. Directed by Jake Scott, the ad aims to capture the energy and intensity of the sport while also paying tribute to the original Pepsi campaign and the iconic film. The collaboration between Pepsi and the talented individuals involved in the project has resulted in a visually stunning spectacle that is sure to resonate with audiences.
Paramount Pictures’ President of Worldwide Marketing & Distribution, Marc Weinstock, commented on the magnitude of this collaboration, describing it as one of the biggest promotional programs in the company’s history. The campaign spans across various platforms, including theatrical marketing, CBS Sports, and the Paramount Global networks. It is evident that the scale of this campaign is massive, aiming to reach audiences far and wide.
Jenny Danzi, Head of Brand Marketing at Pepsi, emphasized the brand’s long history of being at the forefront of culture and collaborating with iconic artists. This gladiator-inspired campaign is a continuation of Pepsi’s dedication to celebrating football and engaging with consumers through innovative marketing strategies. The campaign is set to be a major presence in stores and online, ensuring that fans are fully prepared for gameday this fall.
In addition to the commercial, the campaign includes interactive elements such as the “My Roman Empire” Portrait Generator Tool, allowing fans to see themselves as Gladiators or Roman Royalty by uploading a selfie. Furthermore, there will be a limited line of collector Talking Cans featuring Pepsi’s Gladiator talent, complete with built-in Augmented Reality capabilities. These cans will bring the characters to life through content captured on set and are expected to hit store shelves in early November.
Pepsi’s “Make Your Gameday Epic” campaign is a testament to the brand’s ability to evolve and adapt while still paying tribute to its iconic past. With Megan Thee Stallion leading the charge alongside NFL stars, the campaign is set to captivate audiences and generate excitement for the upcoming football season. Through creative collaborations and innovative marketing strategies, Pepsi continues to remain a powerhouse in the world of advertising and entertainment.