Nearly 20 years after Pepsi’s iconic “Roman Empire” TV spot featuring Britney Spears, Beyonce, and Pink, the beverage giant has launched a new campaign. This time, the familiar anthem “We Will Rock You” by Queen sets the stage for a promotional blitz tied to the upcoming Paramount sequel Gladiator II. The new campaign, titled “Make Your Gameday Epic,” aims to kick off the new NFL season in style. The commercial features Megan Thee Stallion as Empress Megan, alongside NFL superstars such as Josh Allen, Derrick Henry, Justin Jefferson, and Travis Kelce, who transform into Gridiron Gladiators. The ad also includes appearances by Lamorne Morris and Jake Lacy, showcasing a star-studded lineup aimed at captivating audiences.
Megan Thee Stallion not only stars in the ad but also reimagines “We Will Rock You” with new lyrics, infusing the classic anthem with her unique style. The collaboration between Pepsi, Ridley Scott Associates, and Paramount Brand Studio brings the world of Gladiator II to life, creating a visual spectacle that pays homage to the iconic film while capturing the energy of the sport. Directed by Jake Scott, the campaign promises a modern and dynamic interpretation of the Gladiator universe. The blend of music, sports, and entertainment creates a powerful synergy that sets the stage for an unforgettable viewing experience.
The scale of the campaign is evident in its multi-faceted approach, spanning theatrical marketing, CBS Sports, and the Paramount Global networks. Paramount Pictures’ President of Worldwide Marketing & Distribution, Marc Weinstock, describes the partnership as one of the biggest in the company’s history, emphasizing the epic nature of the collaboration. Jenny Danzi, Pepsi’s Head of Brand Marketing, highlights the brand’s commitment to cultural relevance and iconic collaborations, positioning the Gladiator II campaign as a continuation of Pepsi’s legacy in celebrating football and popular culture.
Beyond the TV spot, the Gladiator II Pepsi campaign offers interactive elements to engage consumers. The “My Roman Empire” Portrait Generator Tool allows fans to visualize themselves as Gladiators or Roman Royalty by uploading a selfie, adding a personalized touch to the promotion. Additionally, a limited line of collector Talking Cans featuring the Gladiator talent with Augmented Reality capabilities provides fans with a unique and immersive experience. These innovative elements contribute to the campaign’s overall impact and aim to create a lasting impression on consumers.
As the campaign unfolds, fans can anticipate a robust presence in stores, online, and on television, ensuring widespread visibility and excitement for the upcoming NFL season. The seamless integration of entertainment, sports, and cultural references in the Gladiator II Pepsi campaign underscores Pepsi’s commitment to delivering engaging and memorable experiences to its audience. With the launch of the ad coinciding with Megan Thee Stallion’s hosting of the 2024 VMAs, the collaboration between Pepsi and the entertainment industry promises to be a highlight of the year. As fans await the release of Gladiator II and the accompanying marketing blitz, the Pepsi campaign sets the stage for a truly epic gameday experience.