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Top ads, news from NFL’s biggest game

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Top ads, news from NFL's biggest game

Seahawks’ Kenneth Walker III is Super Bowl MVP

Kenneth Walker III #9 of the Seattle Seahawks rushes against the New England Patriots during the third quarter in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Kevin C. Cox | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images

And the Super Bowl MVP is… running back Kenneth Walker III.

Walker rushed for a game-high 135 yards on 27 carries during the Seahawks’ 29-13 win over the Patriots. He also caught two passes for 26 yards and is one of only three players with multiple runs of more than 25 yards in a Super Bowl.

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— Sarah Whitten

Ken is going places with Expedia

Ken takes a vacation from Barbie’s dream house in Expedia’s Super Bowl spot.

The ad features the iconic doll jet setting around the world, using Expedia’s app to purchase flights and hotels.

— Sarah Whitten

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‘He Gets Us’ campaign returns with another ad

In the final moments of the broadcast, the evangelical groups behind the “He Gets Us” campaign poke at consumerism and greed to ask, “Is there more to life than more?”

It’s the fourth straight year the group has advertised in the Super Bowl, and the controversial campaign has come under fire in prior years for political messages.

— Sarah Jackson

The Seattle Seahawks are Super Bowl champs

Seattle Seahawks’ players celebrate with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after defeating the New England Patriots during Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on February 8, 2026.

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Patrick T. Fallon | Afp | Getty Images

The Seattle Seahawks have won Super Bowl 60. The Oregon-based team secured the win against the New England Patriots with a score of 29-13.

— Sarah Whitten

Hims & Hers calls America’s wealth gap a ‘health gap’

Hims & Hers Health is back at the Super Bowl — a year after airing its polarizing ad that critics accused of oversimplifying U.S. health care — with a provocative message: “Rich people live longer.”

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The 60-second ad features a Jeff Bezos-like figure wearing a blue spacesuit and a lookalike of millionaire and longevity researcher Bryan Johnson. Luxury elective care treatments — from red light therapy to IV drips and cosmetic skin procedures — take center stage before the company touts its own diagnostic testing.

In a statement the company said: “The campaign centers on the uncomfortable truth that America’s healthcare is a tale of two systems: one elite, proactive tier for the wealthy, and a broken, reactive one for everyone else.”

Brandon Gomez

Patriots add six points

New England Patriots’ running back #38 Rhamondre Stevenson celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during Super Bowl LX between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on February 8, 2026.

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Patrick T. Fallon | Afp | Getty Images

A late fourth-quarter touchdown for the Patriots came courtesy of a short shovel pass from QB Drake Maye to running back Rhamondre Stevenson.

New England attempted a two-point conversion, but the pass to tight end Hunter Henry was incomplete. Seahawks lead 29-13 with a little more than two minutes left in regulation.

— Sarah Whitten

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Wegovy advertises GLP-1 pill with Kenan Thompson, DJ Khaled and more

Novo Nordisk, the makers of GLP-1 medication Wegovy, took out a 90-second ad with several celebrities advertising its new weight loss medication. The commercial features Kenan Thompson, DJ Khaled, John C. Reilly, Danielle Brooks, Ana Gasteyer and Danny Trejo promoting the new oral pill form of the weight management medication, which is more commonly administered as an injection.

— Sarah Jackson

Trump rails against Bad Bunny halftime show, NFL kickoff rule

Bad Bunny performs onstage during the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Neilson Barnard | Getty Images Entertainment | Getty Images

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President Donald Trump called Bad Bunny’s halftime performance “one of the worst, EVER!,” saying in a Truth Social post that the dancing was “disgusting” and that the Grammy-winner’s show “makes no sense, is an affront to the Greatness of America.”

In his post, Trump also criticized the NFL’s new kickoff rule and touted stock market gains during his second presidency.

Leslie Josephs

Seahawks defense blitz, recover fumble for touchdown

Seattle Seahawks’ linebacker #07 Uchenna Nwosu scores a touchdown during Super Bowl LX between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on February 8, 2026. (Photo by

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Josh Edelson | Afp | Getty Images

Seattle’s defense added another touchdown during the fourth quarter Sunday. Linebacker Uchenna Nwosu recovered the ball after a hit on Patriot’s quarterback Drake Maye. He ran it down the field for six points.

With yet another kick through the uprights, Seahawks now lead 29-7.

Sarah Whitten

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Myers nails fifth field goal, a Super Bowl record

Jason Myers #5 of the Seattle Seahawks kicks his fifth field goal of the game against the New England Patriots during the fourth quarter Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Ishika Samant | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images

Seahawks kicker Jason Myers made Super Bowl history Sunday, setting a record for the most field goals during the big game. Myers tapped in a fifth three-pointer in the mid-fourth quarter to bring Seattle’s lead to 22-7.

— Sarah Whitten

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MrBeast is giving away $1 million in this Salesforce ad

This ad comes with $1 million for one lucky winner. MrBeast says he’s giving away the prize to the first viewer who finds a secret code in this Salesforce commercial, which may contain some cryptic clues, and messages it to him on Slack via the QR code at the end of the clip.

— Sarah Jackson

Cadillac embarks on F1

Cadillac is out with a Super Bowl ad for its F1 racing team, set to join the grid this season.

The spot featured a sleek, silver racing car against a desert backdrop with a simple tagline: “The mission begins.”

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— Sara Salinas

Hellmann’s introduces ‘Meal Diamond’ to put the spotlight on sandwiches

Hellmann’s ad puts the spotlight on sandwiches, thanks to a parody version of Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline.”

In the spot, “Meal Diamond,” played by actor and comedian Andy Samberg, sings the song in a diner, getting the crowd on their feet. Academy Award-nominated actress Elle Fanning also stars in the spot, as a customer who rejects Meal Diamond.

The Unilever mayonnaise brand is a Super Bowl mainstay. The brand’s commercial last year also took place in a diner — New York’s iconic Katz’s Deli, where actors Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal recreated a scene from their film “When Harry Met Sally.”

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— Amelia Lucas

Patriots on the board

Mack Hollins #13 of the New England Patriots catches a touchdown reception against Riq Woolen #27 of the Seattle Seahawks during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Ronald Martinez | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images

New England quarterback Drake Maye slung a long ball to wide receiver Mack Hollins for the first score of the game for the Patriots.

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The score now stands at 19-7, with the Seahawks in the lead.

— Sarah Whitten

AJ Barner scores first TD of Super Bowl 60

AJ Barner #88 of the Seattle Seahawks scores a touchdown against the New England Patriots during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Ronald Martinez | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images

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Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold connected with tight end AJ Barner for the first touchdown of the game.

Seattle leads 19-0.

— Sarah Whitten

Lay’s is giving away 100,000 bags of chips

In the second of two Super Bowl ads for Lay’s, the potato chip brand is giving fans a chance to win the freshest bag of chips that they’ve ever had.

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The company told AdWeek that it plans to give away 100,00 bags of its chips as part of the contest.

The PepsiCo brand, which recently underwent a makeover, is the latest company to use a QR code to get the audience’s attention. In 2022, Coinbase became the first Super Bowl advertiser to do so, with a simple commercial showing a floating QR code that redirected people to a link offering $15 in bitcoin to sign up for an account.

— Amelia Lucas

Chris Hemsworth vs. Alexa+

Chris Hemsworth faces off against his biggest foe yet — AI.

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The action star and Marvel darling is featured in Amazon’s Super Bowl ad for its new Alexa+ system alongside his wife Elsa Pataky. The spot shows Hemsworth comedically detailing all the ways Alexa could kill him using integrated technology.

— Sarah Whitten

Kalshi co-founder says predictions platform is seeing delays

During prediction platform Kalshi’s biggest foray into football, its cofounder says the platform is experiencing some issues.

“Some deposits are delayed because of the amount of traffic and deposits we’re getting. Your money is safe and on the way, it will just take longer to land,” Luana Lopes Lara said in a post on X.

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Kalshi didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment on what issues users might be reporting.

— Sara Salinas

Pokémon celebrates 30 years

To celebrate its 30th anniversary, Pokémon tapped singer Lady Gaga, comedian Trevor Noah, actor Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Formula One driver Charles Leclerc, Spanish soccer star Lamine Yamal, rapper Young Miko and Black Pink’s Jisoo for a Super Bowl spot.

The celebrities took turn describing their favorite Pokémon. Gaga is all about Jigglypuff, Noah is paired with Psyduck, Ramakrishnan’s is Luxray, Jisoo likes Eevee, Young Miko loves Gengar, Yamal picks Zygarde and Leclerc is a fan of Arcanine.

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Who’s your favorite?

— Sarah Whitten

Ritz ad features salty visitors to ‘Ritz Island’

In its second-ever Super Bowl ad, Ritz is leaning into salt.

SNL alumnus Bowen Yang and actor Jon Hamm star as two disagreeable guests on “Ritz Island” who plot to crash a party just to enjoy the Mondelez-owned snack. Scarlett Johansson also stars.

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Ritz’s foray into the big game comes as its parent company tries to modernize the classic cracker. Mondelez has said it aims to make Ritz a top five savory snack brand.

— Amelia Lucas

Comcast’s cable guy goes to Jurassic Park in Super Bowl ad

Comcast is sending one of its cable guys to “Jurassic Park.”

The cable giant’s Xfinity business — which provides pay TV, broadband and mobile services — made its Super Bowl debut with a commercial that pulls scenes from the first “Jurassic Park” film.

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While the focus of the ad is Comcast’s broadband business — the service representative is imposed into scenes from the original film, saving the day with simple fixes like plugging in an Xfinity modem and router — the commercial grabs from other parts of the Comcast empire, too.

“Jurassic Park” lives in Comcast’s NBCUniversal library, and at one point, its streaming platform Peacock makes an appearance.

Comcast’s broadband business has been in the midst of a strategy shift as it continues to face heated competition from 5G providers.

— Lillian Rizzo

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Budweiser gets warm and fuzzy during the Super Bowl

Budweiser is leaning on a baby bird to lift spirits during its Super Bowl ad this year.

The beer company marked its 48th national appearance during the big game with an ad featuring a young Clydesdale — an icon of Bud ads — that becomes unlikely friends with a baby bird. With Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” as the soundtrack, and the baby bird eventually growing into a bald eagle, Budweiser tapped into the Americana theme that’s been prevalent across the ad slate this year.

— Lillian Rizzo

Ring tugs on heartstrings with Search Party for dogs

Ring wants you to know it does more than tell you who’s at the door.

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This year’s commercial from the Amazon-owned doorbell camera highlights its Search Party feature, which has the capability of reuniting lost dogs with their families. The company is making the software available to non-Ring owners for the first time.

Ring — which says Search Party has already brought home more than one dog per day since launching —has also committed to donating Ring cameras to every animal shelter in the U.S.

— Lillian Rizzo

Singer Sabrina Carpenter builds her perfect man in Pringles spot

All pop star Sabrina Carpenter needs to create the perfect man is a couple of Pringles cylinders. But the cheeky spot has a bittersweet ending. When diehard Pringles fans tackle Carpenter’s boyfriend, she consoles herself by eating some of the chips.

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While Pringles is a regular Super Bowl advertiser, this year’s spot is the first since the brand was bought by Mars. The food giant, known for M&M’s and Skittles, completed its acquisition of Pringles parent Kellanova late last year.

— Amelia Lucas

Google Gemini gives us another AI commercial

The Super Bowl AI ads just keep coming. This one is courtesy of Google Gemini.

A mother and her son test out possible layouts for his room and their backyard in their new home after moving in this ad for the AI assistant. Gemini draws from their Google Photos of their old and new homes and uses generative fill to suggest possibilities.

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— Sarah Jackson

Charli xcx and Rachel Sennott vibe for Poppi

“Brat” singer Charli xcx and comedian Rachel Sennott are just here for the vibes in prebiotic soda brand Poppi’s ad.

— Sarah Jackson

Seahawks punch in fourth field goal, lead 12-0

Seattle Seahawks’ kicker #05 Jason Myers scores a field goal during Super Bowl LX between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on February 8, 2026.

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Patrick T. Fallon | Afp | Getty Images

Another field goal for Seattle.

A battle of defenses has resulted, once again, in a three point score for the Seahawks. They now lead 12-0.

— Sarah Whitten

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Rob Gronkowski stars in cheeky Novartis ad for prostate cancer blood test

Novartis is airing a cheeky ad titled “Relax your tight end” for its finger-free test for prostate cancer.

The clip features current and former NFL tight ends, including Rob Gronkowski, chilling by the pool, painting and swinging in hammocks, all set to Enya’s meme-famous “Only Time.”

Former NFL head coach Bruce Arians, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer himself, talks about the blood test before he and Gronkowski ride off into the sunset on horseback.

— Sarah Jackson

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A message of unity from Bad Bunny

Puerto Rican singer Bad Bunny performs during Super Bowl LX Patriots vs Seahawks Apple Music Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on February 8, 2026.

Patrick T. Fallon | Afp | Getty Images

Bad Bunny closed out his salsa- and reggaeton-filled Super Bowl Halftime Show on his hit “DtMF,” walking back through the sugar-cane set, naming the countries of Latin America, Canada and the United States, “and my homeland, Puerto Rico.”

He held a football that said, “Together we are America.” Behind him was a stadium screen that read: “The only thing more powerful than hate is love,” calling back to his Grammy acceptance speech from a week earlier.

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Leslie Josephs

Matthew Broderick has an AI solution for Super Sick Monday with Genspark

Calling in sick the day after the Super Bowl? Matthew Broderick encourages people to take Super Sick Monday off by putting AI workspace Genspark to work for them instead in yet another AI commercial this Super Bowl.

— Sarah Jackson

Melissa McCarthy enters a telenovela for E.l.f. cosmetics

In October, Bad Bunny joked that English speakers had four months to learn Spanish before his Super Bowl halftime performance. E.l.f. Beauty took note — and was inspired to create “Melisa,” a 30-second spot to promote its Glow Reviver Lip Oil.

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The campaign features Melissa McCarthy as Melisa in a fictional telenovela where she has to learn Spanish before the big concert that night. The ad features iconic telenovela tropes like hypersaturated color and unnatural lighting as well as amnesia, an attractive doctor and a romantic rival.

— Sarah Whitten

‘Will Shat’? William Shatner tackles the fiber gap with Kellogg’s Raisin Bran

William Shatner is serious about fiber. The “Star Trek” star teamed up with Kellogg’s to promote gut health with its cereal brand Raisin Bran.

In the Super Bowl spot, Shatner is tasked with bringing fiber to the masses, beaming to and from different locations on Earth to deliver boxes of Raisin Bran.

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— Sarah Whitten

Svedka debuts primarily AI-generated Super Bowl ad, and it’s ‘super freaky’

Vodka brand Svedka reboots its famous Fembot after 12 years in its commercial, which is primarily AI-generated.

Fembot and Brobot make drinks and dance to “Super Freak,” and the results are indeed “super freaky.”

— Sarah Jackson

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Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin make surprise cameos

Bad Bunny and Lady Gaga perform onstage during the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Kevin C. Cox | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images

Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin made surprise appearances during Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show.

Gaga sang a salsa rendition of “Die With a Smile” with a Latin flair, while Martin appeared and belted out “LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii.”

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Ricky Martin performs onstage during the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Kevin C. Cox | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images

Bad Bunny takes the stage

Bad Bunny performs onstage during the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Neilson Barnard | Getty Images Entertainment | Getty Images

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It’s halftime, America, and Bad Bunny took the stage at Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show.

The Puerto Rican artist walked through a makeshift field of sugar cane, passed a stand of Puerto Rican piraguas, or shaved ice and kicked off the show with “Tití Me Preguntó.”

— Michele Luhn and Leslie Josephs

Rolling down that hill with Bud Light

Peyton Manning, Post Malone and Shane Gillis star in Bud Light’s Super Bowl ad as wedding guests looking for beer to celebrate the nuptials.

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The ceremony turns into something reminiscent of the Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake, as the last keg tumbles down a nearby hill and the entire wedding party follows.

— Sarah Whitten

Fanatics Sportsbook bets on Kendall Jenner for laughs

Fanatics Sportsbook bet on Kendall Jenner this Super Bowl — and it appeared to have paid off early.

In the days leading up to the big game, Jenner’s spicy appearance in the commercial made the rounds on social media. Jenner taps into the lore that she curses her pro basketball ex-boyfriends, saying that betting against them has made her more money than being a model.

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Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin has been expanding the business in every possible way and in addition to the sportsbook, recently launched a prediction market platform in 24 states.

— Lillian Rizzo

Toyota goes for sentimentality with ‘superhero belt’

Toyota Motor decided to tug on heartstrings as well as seatbelts in one of its two Super Bowl ads, called “Superhero Belt.”

The 30-second spot features the automaker’s popular RAV4 crossover. It starts with a child being buckled into one of the first generations of the vehicle by his grandfather, who tells him to use his “superhero belt.”

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It then fasts forwards to present day, where the child is taking the grandfather for a ride in the 2026 Toyota RAV4, reminding him to buckle up his “superhero belt.”

Michael Wayland

Kathryn Hahn pushes San Francisco trolley — and protein shakes — in Oikos spot

The protein craze has hit the Super Bowl.

Oikos is putting the spotlight on its protein-packed yogurt and smoothies in its 30-second spot this year, airing exclusively on Peacock. This marks the Danone yogurt brand’s seventh straight Super Bowl appearance, although it is the first time that it has aired a streaming-only ad.

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When a San Francisco trolley starts slipping down one of the city’s famous hills, actress Kathryn Hahn saves the day. Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry holds onto her protein shake for her.

— Amelia Lucas

Coinbase says ‘Crypto is for everybody’

If your TV turned into a karaoke lyric screen during Super Bowl 60, you’re not alone.

Coinbase, an American cryptocurrency exchange, used brightly colored backgrounds and highlighted colored text set to the tune of “Everybody” by the Backstreet Boys to advertise its services.

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Sarah Whitten

Star-studded Dunkin’ ad riffs on ‘Good Will Hunting’

Dunkin’ brings a retro vibe to its “Good Will Dunkin’” ad with a slew of celebs from popular sitcoms and movies of the ’80s, ’90s, and aughts.

The commercial, set in February 1995, features Ben Affleck, Jason Alexander of “Seinfeld,” Jennifer Aniston and Matt LeBlanc from “Friends,” Jasmine Guy of “A Different World,” Jaleel White of “Family Matters,” Alfonso Ribeiro of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and Ted Danson of “Cheers.”

New England Patriots legend Tom Brady also makes a cameo.

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— Sarah Jackson

Seahawks extend lead to 9-0

The New England Patriots once again kept the Seattle Seahawks out of the endzone, forcing a third field goal.

Jason Myers kicked true, extending his team’s lead to 9-0.

— Sarah Whitten

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Liquid I.V. asks: What color is your urine?

What color is your urine? That’s what Liquid I.V. asks in its Super Bowl ad.

The electrolyte drink mix company’s spot features dozens of singing toilets crooning to Phil Collin’s “Against All Odds” and poses the question: are you properly hydrated?

— Sarah Whitten

Kinder Bueno makes Super Bowl debut

Kinder Bueno is making its Super Bowl debut with a 30-second spot that plays on the Spanish phrase, “no bueno.”

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As a spaceship hurtles out of control, astronauts and mission control trade off saying “no bueno” and “yes, bueno” while handling the crisis and munching on the candy. Reality TV personality Paige DeSorbo and “Armageddon” actor William Fichtner star.

The ad is part of parent company Ferrero’s broader push into the United States. This year, the company’s North American subsidiary plans to spend more than $100 million on marketing campaigns tied to the Super Bowl and World Cup. In late September, Ferrero also completed its acquisition of WK Kellogg, adding its suite of cereals to a portfolio that also includes Nutella and Tic Tac.

— Amelia Lucas

Microsoft makes a football ad for its AI assistant, Copilot

A football scout uses Microsoft Copilot in Excel to sift through data to gradually narrow down the best linebacker prospects. Many tech giants and smaller AI labs are advertising their agents and chatbots in this year’s Super Bowl.

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— Sarah Jackson

Adrien Brody makes a moody ad within an ad for TurboTax

In this ad within an ad, Adrien Brody sets a moody scene walking through pouring rain as he says only death and taxes are guaranteed in life, but “at least death only happens to you once.”

A director cuts to tell Brody to dial it down and be less dramatic TurboTax Experts takes the drama out of taxes, after all and after a brief existential crisis, Brody storms off, yelling to cue the rain on his way out.

— Sarah Jackson

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Levi’s shows it’s ‘behind every original’ with Doechii

We’re looking at a lot of people’s backsides in this one. The Levi’s Super Bowl commercial shows a supercut of many people’s behinds as they don Levi’s jeans with the iconic red tab. Most aren’t recognizable, except for Woody’s from “Toy Story,” and “Anxiety” rapper Doechii, who closes out the ad looking at the camera.

The point: Levi’s is “behind every original.”

— Sarah Jackson

From ‘just a guy’ to Guy Fieri with Bosch

Have you ever wondered what Guy Fieri would look like as a normal guy? Bosch has you covered this Super Bowl.

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The appliance company, which makes everything from drills to dishwashers, tapped the Food Network star for Sunday’s spot. In the ad, a regular guy (Guy Fieri in a wig) interacts with Bosch’s products and transforms into Guy Fieri.

— Sarah Whitten

Matthew McConaughey and Bradley Cooper argue over the ‘foodball’ conspiracy for Uber Eats

Are goalposts modeled after forks missing their inner tines? Is the Pro Football Hall of Fame one big orange juicer?

In Uber Eats’ Super Bowl ad, Matthew McConaughey tries to convince a skeptical Bradley Cooper that football, nay “foodball,” is just one big conspiracy to sell food.

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— Sarah Jackson

Nerds taps Andy Cohen for Juicy Gummy Clusters ad

TV host Andy Cohen doesn’t just love juicy gossip, he’s a big fan of the new Juicy Gummy Clusters from Nerds.

Cohen appears in the Super Bowl spot alongside a giant CGI gummy cluster, lounging by the pool before getting dressed for a big Hollywood premiere.

— Sarah Whitten

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Twice upon a time in Hollywood?

Brad Pitt returns as Cliff Booth in “The Adventures of Cliff Booth” a follow-up film to Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.”

Netflix dropped a trailer for the upcoming flick during the Big Game’s first quarter. The short teaser was set to retro music and the sepia-toned look of its predecessor, although it appears to be giving ’70s vibes rather than the ’60s seen in the original film.

All R-rated references were censored in a cheeky fashion with an animated scribble blocking out nude women, alcohol, cigarettes and guns. No date was set for the film’s release, but it will be directed by David Fincher.

— Sarah Whitten

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WeatherTech introduces new products for extra vehicle storage

WeatherTech shows off its array of storage products for vehicles, including floor liners, seat protectors, no-drill mud flaps, hitch baskets for bulky gear and roof baskets for added capacity on top of your car.

— Sarah Jackson

Unilever’s Dove highlights girls’ sports in 30-second spot

Unilever’s Dove ad brings the beat, highlighting the role that confidence and joy bring to girls’ sports.

The spot carries on Dove’s long-running focus on improving women’s and girls’ self esteem. The soap brand’s “Real Beauty” campaign kicked off more than two decades ago.

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This marks the third straight year that Dove has appeared in the Super Bowl — and the third year that the brand has chosen to spotlight girls’ confidence.

— Amelia Lucas

Redfin’s and Lady Gaga’s ode to neighbors

Lady Gaga sings “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” in a joint Super Bowl ad for Rocket Companies-owned Redfin.

The song plays as neighbors help find a lost dog, chop down a fallen tree after a storm and pick up dropped groceries, among other neighborly gestures.

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— Sarah Whitten

Seahawks extend lead to 6-0

The Seattle Seahawks put another one through the uprights early in the second quarter. The successful field goal brings the score to 6-0.

— Sarah Whitten

Pepsi wins over Coca-Cola’s polar bear mascot

More than a century ago, Coca-Cola staked its claim on polars bears with a French advertisement. But now, arch rival PepsiCo is claiming to have won them over in a blind taste test, sparking an existential crisis for the mascot.

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The 45-second spot also parodies the now-infamous “kiss cam” moment at a Coldplay concert in July and features a cameo from filmmaker Taika Waititi.

As the challenger brand, Pepsi often takes aim at Coke in its advertisements, but the Super Bowl ad is its most direct shot in years and could reignite the decades-long “Cola Wars.”

For its part, Coke hasn’t advertised during the Super Bowl since 2020. But the beverage giant gets the last laugh. Its namesake drink is still the best-selling soda. Plus, Sprite, another one of its brands, leapfrogged Pepsi last year to become the third most popular soda, trailing only Coke and Dr Pepper.

— Amelia Lucas

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T-Mobile calls on Backstreet Boys in Super Bowl spot

The Backstreet Boys put a twist on their big hit, “I Want It That Way,” for T-Mobile’s Super Bowl ad.

In the commercial, the ’90s boy band appears in one of T-Mobile’s stores in Times Square, serenading fans about why T-Mobile is better than other mobile carriers. “Tell me why it’s America’s best network?” the band croons to a crowd of fans dancing in pink confetti.

— Lillian Rizzo

‘Minions & Monsters’ trailer

Universal unleashed a new trailer for the upcoming “Minions & Monsters” film during the Super Bowl.

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The film is due out in theaters July 1.

Sarah Whitten

Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos collaborate again, this time for Squarespace

In her first Super Bowl ad, Emma Stone tries to get a website domain in her name but repeatedly finds it’s already taken and lashes out at her devices in frustration.

The black-and-white ad, called “Unavailable,” is directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, whom Stone has worked with on several films, including “Bugonia” and “Kinds of Kindness.”

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— Sarah Jackson

Meta and Oakley feature Marshawn Lynch, Spike Lee in ‘athletic intelligence’ ad

The ad for the new Oakley Meta Performance AI glasses features the likes of Marshawn Lynch and Spike Lee turning to the eyewear with questions as they do various activities like skydiving, skateboarding and running with vultures.

One such question is, “Hey Meta, do vultures eat people?”

— Sarah Jackson

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Lay’s highlights its farmers and potatoes in touching spot

Lay’s puts the focus on its farmers in a sentimental 60-second spot showing a father handing over the keys to the potato farm to his daughter after one last harvest.

It’s one of two ads that the PepsiCo brand planned to air during the game.

Pepsi recently gave the potato chip brand a makeover, redesigning its packaging to highlight the “real potatoes” in the snack. The company also announced on Tuesday that it is cutting the prices of Lay’s and other snack brands by about 15%, all in a bid to win back price-conscious shoppers.

— Amelia Lucas

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Heidi Gardner and Jeff Goldblum star in Apartments.com ad

SNL alum Heidi Gardner and actor Jeff Goldblum find themselves in far-out places in their ad for Apartments.com and Homes.com, like the depths of the Mariana Trench, a sand dune experiencing a haboob dust storm and a decommissioned space shuttle. Both have previously starred in Super Bowl commercials for the real estate listing sites.

— Sarah Jackson

Liquid Death

Energy drinks got your head exploding? Liquid Death has a solution.

The water company posted an ad for its Liquid Death Sparkling Energy product on Sunday showcasing the zero sugar beverage.

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— Sarah Whitten

Wix unveils new builder Harmony that lets you vibe code your website to life

Wix shows off its new website builder, Wix Harmony, that lets you use vibe coding and an AI agent, Aria, to build your site. Users still have full manual control to drag and drop elements of their site.

— Sarah Jackson

Ro takes a big swing with Serena Williams

Serena Williams is front and center at the Super Bowl for a second year in a row.

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Ro, the direct-to-consumer health company that offers access to GLP-1 medications, employed the tennis phenom to tell her weight loss story as part of its big game spot.

Last year Ro had “dipped its toes into advertising” for the Super Bowl with a streaming-only ad, Will Flaherty, senior vice president of growth at Ro, told CNBC. This year Ro stepped it up to the traditional broadcast and anchored its ads with Williams, who made a surprise appearance during last year’s halftime performance by rapper Kendrick Lamar.

Ro’s CEO touted the ad — and said the high cost of a Super Bowl spot pays off — in a recent blog post.

— Lillian Rizzo

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Kurt Russell is the ULTRA Instructor

Lewis Pullman’s “Greg” keeps losing friendly ski races with Olympic snowboarder Chloe Kim and Olympic ice hockey player T.J. Oshie, resulting in him having to foot the bill for their Michelob Ultras.

Then Kurt Russell comes along as a cowboy hat-wearing ski guru who guides Greg in a Mr. Miyagi-style training montage.

— Sarah Whitten

Benson Boone and Ben Stiller have a flip-off for Instacart

“Mystical Magical” singer Benson Boone and “Zoolander” actor Ben Stiller star as brothers who are also part of a Europop duo in Instacart’s Super Bowl ad.

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During a performance, Boone does a flip and Stiller attempts to one-up him, jumping from increasingly higher platforms on stage to disastrous, but humorous, effect.

— Sarah Whitten

‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’ trailer

Disney unveiled a new trailer for the upcoming ‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’ film.

This is the first theatrical Star Wars debut since 2019’s “The Rise of Skywalker” and marks the first time the Mandalorian and his ward Grogu will appear on the big screen. The film arrives in theaters May 22.

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— Sarah Whitten

DraftKings ad features SNL’s Colin Jost and Michael Che

It’s all part of the plan when Colin Jost and Michael Che, hosts of SNL’s “Weekend Update,” make a live commercial gone wrong for sports betting platform DraftKings. Super Bowl 60 has already seen several other sports betting ads so far.

— Sarah Jackson

Toyota looks at ‘where dreams began’ with athletes’ younger selves

Toyota’s inspirational ad centers on “where dreams began.”

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It features three Team Toyota athletes — NFL wide receiver Puka Nacua, U.S. Paralympian Oksana Masters and NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace — meeting their mini-me younger selves who aspired to greatness.

— Sarah Jackson

Seattle Seahawks score first

Jason Myers #5 of the Seattle Seahawks kicks a field goal against the New England Patriots during the first quarter in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Ishika Samant | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images

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Seattle tapped in a 33-yard field goal on their first possession. The Seahawks lead 3-0.

— Sarah Whitten

State Farm channels Bon Jovi’s ‘Livin’ on a Prayer’ with star-studded ad

State Farm brings the star power for its Super Bowl commercial, featuring actress and wife of Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen, Hailee Steinfeld, seeking coverage from the fictitious Halfway There Insurance, started by comedians Keegan-Michael Key and Danny McBride.

The comic duo turn back the clock with mullets and rock out to “Livin’ on a Prayer,” complete with a surprise appearance by girl group Katseye.

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— Sarah Jackson

‘Scream 7’ trailer

Ahead of Sunday’s kickoff, Paramount shared an all-new trailer for the upcoming film “Scream 7.”

Due in theaters later this month, the sequel film brings back final girl Neve Campbell as Sidney Prescott as well as Matthew Lillard, who starred in the original back in 1996.

— Sarah Whitten

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‘Disclosure Day’ trailer

Steven Spielberg returns to the big screen on June 12 with his new film “Disclosure Day.”

The Universal film stars Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor, Colin Firth, Eve Hewson and Colman Domingo and centers around the concept of what would happen if Earth found out humans weren’t alone in the universe.

— Sarah Whitten

Patriots win the toss

Football – NFL – Super Bowl LX – New England Patriots v Seattle Seahawks – Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California, United States – February 8, 2026 Referee Shawn Smith talks to players before the game.

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Carlos Barria | Reuters

The New England Patriots have won the coin toss. They have opted to defer.

This means that Seattle Seahawks will receive the first kick-off and the Patriots will get the ball to start the second half.

— Sarah Whitten

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Trump accounts get Super Bowl spotlight

An ad for Trump accounts aired during the Super Bowl on Sunday as part of a massive push to spread awareness about the new savings accounts for children.

In a 30-second spot — paid for by Invest America, a nonprofit advocacy group — children tout the virtues of so-called Trump accounts, also known as 530A accounts, which were created as part of President Donald Trumps’big beautiful bill.”

Along with a billboard in New York’s Times Square and a Trump Account Summit, which was livestreamed from Washington on Jan. 28, the Trump administration is pulling out all the stops to get the word out about the pilot program.

The Trump account commercial ran during the pregame broadcast Sunday, though Invest America posted a preview of the ad on X on Thursday.

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— Jessica Dickler and Kate Dore

Sofía Vergara for Skechers

Shoes fly in Skechers’ Super Bowl ad starring “Modern Family” actress Sofía Vergara.

Vergara tosses shoes with laces out the window and into the pool as she touts how easy it is to put on Skechers’ hands-free slip-ins.

— Sarah Whitten

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Brandi Carlile and Charlie Puth perform after the teams take the field

Brandi Carlile (C) performs “America the Beautiful” during Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

Chris Graythen | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images

After the teams took the field, Grammy Award-winning “The Story” singer Brandi Carlile sung “America the Beautiful” as part of the pregame entertainment before kickoff, followed by Charlie Puth singing the national anthem.

Charlie Puth performs “The Star-Spangled Banner” during Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

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Chris Graythen | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images

Out of the locker room…

The New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks have taken the field. The two teams faced off against each other 11 years ago during Super Bowl 49, with the Patriots hoisting the Lombardi Trophy at the end of the night.

Introduced by long-time fan and Marvel star Chris Pratt, the Seahawks are led by quarterback Sam Darnold and a strong defense.

Jon Bon Jovi did the honors in announcing the arrival of the Patriots, who have Drake Maye at the helm as quarterback and the newly minted AP Coach of the Year Mike Vrabel.

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— Sarah Whitten

Brian Baumgartner comes back as Kevin Malone from ‘The Office,’ famous chili and all

Brian Baumgartner reprises his role as everyone’s favorite accountant from “The Office,” Kevin Malone, in his ad for fintech startup Ramp.

Overwhelmed with work, he starts using Ramp and dozens of Kevin clones appear out of nowhere, helping divide and conquer. The ad ends with two Kevins recreating an iconic scene, carefully transporting a vat of his famous chili through the office; this time, it stops short of the spill.

— Sarah Jackson

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Manscaped makes a hairy debut during the big game

Manscaped is depending on discarded hairballs to get its message across.

The men’s grooming company is using its debut in the Super Bowl as an opportunity to tell customers that it has grown beyond the foundation of its business.

“Manscaped is a brand that has been around for a few years now, but we’re at this very important moment in our trajectory, which is a big push for products beyond the groin, which is our first claim to fame,” Chief Marketing Officer Marcelo Kertesz told CNBC in an earlier interview. “We have something new to communicate to the world.”

The commercial features men shaving hair from every part of their body, and the remains singing a ballad about life after leaving the follicle.

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— Lillian Rizzo

An unprecedented number of AI companies are advertising in the Super Bowl

Artificial intelligence companies are investing lots of money and resources into advertisements at this year’s Super Bowl.

Anthropic and OpenAI are joined by a multitude of other tech companies in advertising this year, taking the space of some of the biggest categories as traditional companies, like automakers, retreat slightly.

Google, Amazon and Meta are just some of the companies advertising this year, joined by smaller AI companies like Genspark and Wix, too.

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This year’s Super Bowl ads cost a record $8 million on average for a 30-second spot, with some reaching as high as $10 million.

– Laya Neelakandan and Julia Boorstin

GrubHub Super Bowl debut pledges to ‘eat the fees’

The ads are rolling pregame.

GrubHub’s Super Bowl debut, directed by “Bugonia” filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos, stars George Clooney as the bearer of good news: GrubHub will eat the fees. The promotion pledges to cover delivery and service for orders over $50.

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Wonder, founded by billionaire Marc Lore, has owned the delivery service for about a year, one of many splashy acquisitions made by the delivery and takeout concept. Under its new ownership, GrubHub has been trying to regain the market share it has ceded to DoorDash and Uber Eats.

— Amelia Lucas

Anthropic and OpenAI spar over Super Bowl campaign

The Seahawks and the Patriots aren’t the only ones squaring off this Super Bowl.

Anthropic took aim at its rival, OpenAI, with its first Super Bowl ad campaign. 

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The artificial intelligence startup announced this week that it will not introduce ads to its Claude chatbot, just weeks after OpenAI said it will begin testing ads for some users within ChatGPT.

Anthropic’s Super Bowl campaign centers around its decision to keep Claude ad-free. It’s airing a 60-second pregame ad and a 30-second in-game ad that both feature the tag line, “Ads are coming to AI. But not to Claude.” 

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman responded to the ads in a post on X, calling them “funny” but “clearly dishonest.”

“We would obviously never run ads in the way Anthropic depicts them,” Altman wrote. “We are not stupid and we know our users would reject that.”

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— Ashley Capoot

Unilever makes its biggest-ever Super Bowl buy as U.S. becomes center of its business

Dove logo is seen on the product packaging at the shop in Krakow, Poland on January 17, 2022. 

Nurphoto | Getty Images

For the first time ever, Unilever plans to run three separate ads during this year’s big game, showing the British company’s increased focus on the U.S. as the center of its growth strategy.

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The consumer giant will air spots for Hellmann’s, Dove and Liquid I.V. While they represent only three brands out of the hundreds owned by the company, each represents a distinct product category that is important to its U.S. business: food, personal care and wellbeing.

The U.S. currently accounts for more than a fifth of Unilever’s sales, according to company filings. About 95% of U.S. households use at least one of Unilever’s products, according to the company.

But the company’s big Super Bowl bet shows that it isn’t content with those numbers, and it is counting on the game’s massive audience to buy its products after seeing the spots.

“I do think the nation stops to a degree when the Super Bowl comes together,” said Herrish Patel, President of Unilever USA and CEO of the company’s North American personal care division. “Eighty percent of that [audience of] 127 million actually watch the commercials.”

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— Amelia Lucas

Streaming opens the door to small brands buying ads

NBCUniversal Peacock

Todd Williamson | Peacock | NBCUniversal | Getty Images

It’s no secret that buying a spot in the Super Bowl costs big bucks. But now that the game is also streamed in addition to the traditional TV broadcast, smaller brands have a more affordable entry point to get in front of millions of viewers during the biggest live event on TV every year.

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Viewers who watch the game on Peacock will see all the big commercials the Super Bowl is known for — and a smaller subset of ads earmarked as streaming-only.

This year that’s allowed brands like cowboy boots maker Tecovas and family location safety app Life360 to advertise for the first time during the Super Bowl. Last year, healthcare startup Ro bought a streaming-only ad. This year Ro decided to buy placement during the traditional telecast, and scored tennis superstar Serena Williams for the commercial.

Streaming-only spots make up about 10% of the full ad inventory during the big game, and cost about half of what a traditional TV commercial goes for, Mark Marshall, NBC Chairman of Global Advertising and Partnerships, told CNBC.

“So cheaper, but still not cheap,” said Marshall. “And part of it is also you don’t have many of these spots, right? So I think people caught on to this trick over the past couple years, and it’s done really well in streaming. And as a result, a lot of people are lining up and wanting to do that.”

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These ads, which appear nationally, fill the same slots that air regional commercials during the TV network broadcast.

— Lillian Rizzo

Trump laments former Patriots coach Belichick’s Hall of Fame snub

Bill Belichick, head coach of the New England Patriots holds the Vince Lombardi trophy after winning Super Bowl XXXVIII, 01 February 2004 at Reliant Stadium in Houston, Texas. The Patriots beat the Carolina Panthers 32-29 to win the game.

Jeff Haynes | AFP | Getty Images

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President Donald Trump said in an interview with NBC News prior to the game that it was “terrible” that former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick didn’t get a first-ballot election into the NFL Hall of Fame.

“I thought it was terrible,” Trump said in the hourlong interview with “NBC Nightly News” anchor Tom Llamas. “He’s won so much, won so many Super Bowls. Great coach.”

“Well, you know, you have a great career and he has had a little bit of a controversial year and a half, two years maybe,” Trump added. “But what difference does that make? “He should be in there right at the top.”

— Leslie Josephs

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New York AG warns about risks of prediction markets ahead of Super Bowl

Attorney General Letitia James listens as New York Gov. Kathy Hochul speaks during a press conference at her NYC office on Oct. 16, 2025 in New York City.

Michael M. Santiago | Getty Images

Just days before the Super Bowl, New York Attorney General Letitia James warned New Yorkers about the risks associated with prediction markets.

“New Yorkers need to know the significant risks with unregulated prediction markets,” James said in a statement Monday“It’s crystal clear: so-called prediction markets do not have the same consumer protections as regulated platforms. I urge all New Yorkers to be cautious of these platforms to protect their money.”

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Kalshi responded in a statement saying the platforms are regulated by the CFTC.

“We all want the same thing: safe, fair and legitimate products,” Kalshi’s statement read.

– Laya Neelakandan and Alex Sherman

NFL could look to renegotiate media rights after the Super Bowl

NFL boss Roger Goodell speaks at a press conference before Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots.

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Maximilian Haupt | Picture Alliance | Getty Images

While the NFL season caps off with the Super Bowl on Sunday, the action won’t stop there.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell told CNBC last year that the league could renegotiate its media rights deals as early as 2026 — four years ahead of the current agreement’s opt-out clause.

Currently, the NFL is in the midst of an 11-year, $111 billion media rights deal that it signed in 2021. That deal contained an opt-out clause after the 2029-30 season for all of its media partners (except Disney, which has an extra year of rights).

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But a new media rights deal would not only give the league the chance to add potentially billions of dollars to its coffers, but could also give the media rights partners certainty on the number of years they have claim to the most-watched live TV content.

After an explosive season of ratings, it will surprise few if the league restarts negotiations once football enters its off season.

In addition to Disney, Comcast’s NBCUniversal, Paramount Skydance, Amazon and Fox are partners in this media rights package. The league would need agreement from them to start new discussions.

— Lillian Rizzo

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Patriots owner Robert Kraft responds to Hall of Fame snub

Robert Kraft on new Super Bowl ad: You're not born with hate, it's learned

Patriots owner Robert Kraft on Tuesday responded to reports that he was snubbed from this year’s NFL Hall of Fame, along with former Patriots coach Bill Belichick.

The class of honorees were unveiled on Thursday at the NFL Honors ceremony in San Francisco.

“What matters to me is that we win Sunday,” Kraft told CNBC earlier this week.

Kraft and Belichick together led the Patriots to six Super Bowl wins.

“I can’t speak on issues where other people are voting or doing things,” he added.

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Laya Neelakandan

Automakers pull back on Super Bowl advertising

Automakers have historically been major buyers of ads during the big game, but this year they’re largely sitting it out.

They’ve been inconsistent with advertising during the Super Bowl in recent years. Automakers accounted for 40% of Super Bowl ad minutes in 2012, but that dropped to 7% by 2025, according to ad data company iSpot. The pullback follows broader uncertainty in the U.S. automotive industry.

Only three automakers — General Motors, Toyota Motor and Volkswagen — are expected to air ads this year, totaling roughly 2 minutes.

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— Michael Wayland

NFL raked in $2.7B in 2025 sponsorship revenue

A customer shops for Super Bowl LX merchandise at an official NFL pop-up Super Bowl shop on Feb. 3, 2026 in San Francisco, California.

Justin Sullivan | Getty Images

It was a big year for NFL team sponsorships.

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Revenue from the partnerships was up 8% to $2.7 billion this year, “reinforcing the league’s position as the most valuable marketing platform in U.S. sports,” according to a report from data provider SponsorUnited.

The report found technology, financial services and ticketing systems were the top sectors among sponsors. Tech companies provided the biggest increase and spent $21 million across 88 deals. Of note, Microsoft, Cisco Systems and Evolv were the biggest spenders, surpassing $1 million each.

The Dallas Cowboys generated the most sponsorship revenue of any team. The New England Patriots also found their way into the top five teams by sponsorship revenue.

— Lillian Rizzo

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Kalshi is expanding its surveillance efforts

Kalshi on Thursday announced new methods of surveilling and enforcing practices on its platforms as skepticism builds around the booming predictions market space.

The announcement came just days before the Super Bowl, with the prediction market saying trading volume for the big game had already surpassed $160 million.

Kalshi CEO Tarek Mansour said the company has now formed surveillance committees and has created a Head of Enforcement to ensure the platform is operating legally. Over the past year, Mansour said, Kalshi ran over 200 investigations into user behavior and frozen “relevant” accounts.

“All industries have bad actors and no system is perfect, Kalshi’s included,” Mansour wrote. “But we are committed to improving daily. Lots of work ahead!”

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– Laya Neelakandan

Gen Z could be fueling the prediction markets boom

The Kalshi app arranged on a smartphone in New York, US, on Monday, Feb. 10, 2025.

Gabby Jones | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Generation Z could be behind the recent boom in prediction markets, like Polymarket and Kalshi, which are open to those 18 and older.

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Data from HoldCrunch, a firm founded by a former FanDuel executive, showed that Kalshi takes in major trading volume on college football, which could offer a clue into the user demographics.

According to Kalshi, college football hit its highest percentage of total trades on the platform yet, at 32%, for the week ended Jan. 4. The NFL held 24% of total wagers, while the NBA held 22%.

And Truist analysts wrote in a recent note that the 18- to 20-year-old cohort could be the reason behind the surge, especially in New York, where online sports betting is legal but limited to people 21 and older.

– Laya Neelakandan and Contessa Brewer

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Bad Bunny set to make history with halftime show

Grammy Award-winning global recording artist Bad Bunny smiles during his halftime show press conference ahead of Sunday’s performance at the Super Bowl LX game between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, in San Francisco, California, U.S., February 5, 2026.

Carlos Barria | Reuters

Bad Bunny is set to perform at halftime.

The Puerto Rican rapper-singer made history last week as the first artist to bring home the coveted album of the year award at the Grammys for an all-Spanish-language album with “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS.”

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He’s also the first Spanish-language artist to solo headline the Super Bowl halftime show.

Bad Bunny — who has been crowned the most-streamed artist of the year on Spotify multiple times — is also known for advocating for Puerto Rican independence and criticizing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, including at the Grammys.

“Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say, ‘ICE out,’” he said last Sunday as he accepted the award for best música urbana album.

Bad Bunny has previously said he wants the show to be for everyone. He announced the performance with a trailer from Apple Music that read, “February 8 the world will dance.”

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— Michele Luhn

Charlie Puth to belt out National Anthem

Charlie Puth speaks onstage during the Super Bowl LX Pregame & Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show Press Conference at Moscone Center West on February 05, 2026 in San Francisco, California.

Kevin Mazur | Getty Images Entertainment | Getty Images

Charlie Puth will help kick off Super Bowl 60 with a rendition of the national anthem.

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The big question is, how long will it take the “We Don’t Talk Anymore” singer to belt out the anthem? You see, there’s always a prop bet on the length of the national anthem.

Here’s how long previous singers have taken:

  • 2025: Jon Batiste – 1:59
  • 2024: Reba McEntire – 1:36
  • 2023: Chris Stapleton – 2:01
  • 2022: Mickey Guyton – 1:51
  • 2021: Eric Church and Jazmine Sullivan – 2:17
  • 2020: Demi Lovato – 1:49
  • 2019: Gladys Knight – 2:01
  • 2018: Pink – 1:52
  • 2017: Luke Bryan – 2:04
  • 2016: Lady Gaga – 2:23
  • 2015: Idina Menzel – 2:04
  • 2014: Renée Fleming – 2:03
  • 2013: Alicia Keys – 2:36
  • 2012: Kelly Clarkson – 1:34

— Sarah Whitten

Lids breaks down its top NFL team sales — neither Super Bowl team makes an appearance

Lids, the retailer known for selling hats and other merchandise for pro sports team, is edging its way into the Super Bowl this year with some stats of its own.

The retailer broke down the top selling NFL gear by state, highlighting some fun trends ahead of the Super Bowl.

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To note, the top selling jerseys don’t come from either of the teams facing off in Sunday’s game.

Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles (winner of Super Bowl 59) was the top-selling jersey overall at Lids stores. Also in the top five were his teammate Jalen Hurts, along with Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers (who lost to Seattle for a spot in this year’s Super Bowl), Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes and the Dallas Cowboys’ CeeDee Lamb.

Despite another disappointing season, the Cowboys proved to still be America’s team with the top-selling gear nationally at Lids stores. Ironically enough, that didn’t ring true in the Cowboys’ home state. Instead, Houston Texans’ quarterback C.J. Stroud was the top selling jersey in the Lone Star State.

— Lillian Rizzo

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Super Bowl prediction markets are open

Heading into the big game, prediction market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket had contracts open for the big event, including around the advertising slate for the broadcast.

Some of those trades include whether Salesforce, Verizon or Coca-Cola, for example, would advertise this year, along with more nuanced predictions like, “Who will appear in a big game ad before Feb 9, 2026?” Those options ranged from Sydney Sweeney to Harry Styles and more.

And of course, users can wager on traditional football outcomes like most rushing yards.

Prediction markets have skyrocketed in popularity in recent months, prompting critics to say the industry is unregulated and the offerings amount to little more than illegal betting.

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Kalshi and Polymarket maintain their products do not constitute gambling and that they have consumer protections in place.

– Laya Neelakandan, Alex Sherman and Contessa Brewer

NFL regular season raked in big ratings

Christian Gonzalez #0 of the New England Patriots moves in on James Cook III #4 of the Buffalo Bills during a game between the New England Patriots and the Buffalo Bills on Dec. 14, 2025, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Fred Kfoury III | Icon Sportswire | Getty Images

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NFL regular season games scored big in 2025.

Live sports often eclipse most other programming on TV for the biggest audiences, most especially the NFL.

This season was no different. NFL games averaged 18.7 million viewers per game on traditional TV and digital platforms — up 10% from the prior year, according to Nielsen — marking the second-most-watched NFL season on record.

Two of the matchups with the biggest viewership came in Week 13 of the season: 57.3 million average viewers tuned in for Kansas City vs. Dallas, while Green Bay vs. Detroit garnered 47.7 million.

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Meanwhile the rematch between Super Bowl opponents Philadelphia and Kansas City garnered 33.8 million viewers.

— Lillian Rizzo

NBCUniversal is leaning into sports streaming

Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics – Preview – Livigno, Italy – February 2, 2026 General view of the Olympic rings ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.

Marko Djurica | Reuters

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NBCUniversal is having itself a “Legendary February,” as the Comcast media unit works to establish itself as a frontrunner in the sports streaming space.

In additional to airing Super Bowl 60, NBC is also broadcasting (and streaming) the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, and next week, it will air the NBA All-Star game as part of the media company’s new NBA media rights deal.

Still, NBC and Peacock aren’t meant to be sports-only platforms, according to Comcast co-CEO Mike Cavanagh.

“Have you watched ‘Stumble’? Have you watched ‘St. Denis [Medical]’? We don’t want to be a sports-only service. That’s not the plan,” he said in a recent interview.

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Read more about NBC’s push into live sports.

Disclosure: CNBC parent Versant is carrying NBC Sports-produced Olympic coverage on its networks, including USA Network and CNBC.

– Laya Neelakandan and Alex Sherman

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Historic Scoring Not Enough as Wemby, SGA Lead Tight Race

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Luka Dončić

Luka Doncic is delivering one of the most dominant offensive seasons in NBA history, leading the league in scoring while carrying the Los Angeles Lakers to a strong playoff position, yet the Slovenian superstar faces long odds of capturing the 2026 Kia Most Valuable Player award with just weeks left in the regular season.

Luka Dončić
Luka Dončić

As of April 1, 2026, Doncic’s MVP odds sit between +1100 and +2700 across major sportsbooks, placing him third or fourth behind clear frontrunners Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs. Betting markets and prediction platforms give him roughly a 4-8% implied probability of winning, a sharp contrast to his status as a preseason contender.

Doncic, in his first full season with the Lakers after a mid-career trade, is averaging a league-leading 33.7-33.8 points per game, along with 7.8 rebounds and 8.2-8.3 assists. He is shooting 47.6-47.7% from the field and 36.6-36.8% from three-point range through 63 games. His scoring barrage has included multiple 40- and 50-point outbursts, including a memorable 60-point performance that helped fuel a 13-2 Lakers surge in March.

The Lakers sit third in the Western Conference with a 48-26 record, benefiting from Doncic’s playmaking alongside LeBron James and supporting cast. Coach JJ Redick has publicly stated that a strong finish could bolster Doncic’s case, and the star has climbed the official Kia MVP Ladder in recent weeks, reaching as high as No. 2 before slipping to No. 4 in the latest update behind Wembanyama, Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic.

Despite the gaudy numbers, several factors are working against Doncic in voter eyes. The MVP award has increasingly rewarded team success and two-way impact in recent years. Gilgeous-Alexander leads the Thunder to the best record in the league at around 60-16 or better, while anchoring an elite defense. Wembanyama, at just 22, has elevated the Spurs to a top seed with transformative two-way play, ranking near the top in blocks, rebounds and efficiency.

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Voters also weigh narrative and precedent. Doncic has finished in the top five in MVP voting multiple times but has never won. Critics point to defensive limitations and high usage rates that sometimes lead to late-game fatigue. Some analysts argue the bar for heliocentric guards keeps rising, making it harder for pure scorers to claim the award without elite team wins or defensive contributions.

Advanced metrics paint a mixed picture. Doncic leads in scoring and ranks high in assist percentage, with strong efficiency considering his workload. However, models that factor in team record, defensive rating and games played give the edge to Gilgeous-Alexander and Wembanyama. Basketball-Reference’s MVP tracker currently ranks Doncic third with roughly 5% projected vote share, well behind the leaders.

The race remains fluid entering April. The Lakers have been one of the hottest teams in the league, winning nine of 10 or better in recent stretches, which has helped Doncic’s case. A continued strong finish combined with any slippage from the top two contenders could narrow the gap. Yet with only a handful of games remaining, dramatic shifts are unlikely unless injuries or extraordinary performances intervene.

Doncic’s supporters highlight the historic nature of his output. Averaging over 33 points while playing heavy minutes in a loaded Western Conference is rare. His playmaking vision remains elite, and he has shown improved conditioning and leadership in Los Angeles. Lakers fans and some media voices argue that if the team secures home-court advantage or climbs higher, Doncic deserves serious consideration.

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Historically, the MVP often goes to the player whose team achieves the best record while posting superstar numbers. Gilgeous-Alexander’s efficiency, leadership of a title contender and defensive versatility make him the betting favorite at -350 to -550. Wembanyama’s two-way dominance and youth narrative have propelled him to +210 to +550 in recent weeks, with some ladders placing him at No. 1.

Jokic, the reigning two-time MVP, remains in the mix with triple-double prowess but has seen his odds lengthen to +4000 or longer as Denver’s record lags behind the top teams. Other names such as Jaylen Brown appear as longshots.

For Doncic to win, several scenarios would likely need to align: the Lakers finishing with one of the top two or three records in the West, continued 30-plus point explosions, and perhaps a narrative shift emphasizing his individual brilliance amid a star-studded roster. Even then, overcoming the current gap in betting markets and voter sentiment would be an uphill battle.

The 27-year-old remains in his prime and has expressed focus on team success over individual awards. In recent interviews, he has downplayed MVP talk while emphasizing playoff preparation. His ability to elevate teammates has been evident in Los Angeles, where the supporting cast has thrived alongside his playmaking.

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As the regular season winds down, every remaining game carries added weight. The Thunder, Spurs and Lakers are all battling for seeding and momentum. A late surge by any contender could reshape the final MVP Ladder before ballots are cast.

Ultimately, while Luka Doncic is producing video-game numbers and carrying the Lakers into contention, the combination of team records and two-way excellence from Gilgeous-Alexander and Wembanyama makes a 2026 MVP victory unlikely. He sits as a compelling dark horse with odds reflecting a small but real chance — perhaps 5% or less in most models.

Doncic has already cemented his place among the league’s elite. Whether he claims the Maurice Podoloff Trophy this season or adds to his growing legacy in future years, his 2025-26 campaign stands as one of the most impressive individual offensive seasons in recent memory. For now, the award appears headed elsewhere, but in the unpredictable world of NBA awards, the final weeks could still hold surprises.

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San Francisco International Airport TSA Wait Time Less Than 5 Minutes Today

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United Airlines passengers check in for flights at San Francisco International Airport on April 19, 2022

Travelers heading through San Francisco International Airport on Thursday faced relatively smooth security lines, with TSA wait times averaging around 10 to 18 minutes across checkpoints — a stark contrast to hours-long delays plaguing many U.S. airports amid ongoing federal staffing issues.

United Airlines passengers check in for flights at San Francisco International Airport on April 19, 2022
United Airlines passengers check in for flights at San Francisco International Airport on April 19, 2022

As of early Thursday morning, live estimates showed standard security waits at SFO hovering near 11 minutes, with TSA PreCheck lanes often clearing in under 5 minutes. Peak afternoon hours could push waits toward 20-23 minutes, according to blended real-time data from airport trackers and traveler reports. The shortest waits overnight dipped as low as 4-6 minutes, while the longest recent spikes reached about 23 minutes in the late afternoon.

SFO officials reported “normal wait times” on their website, crediting the airport’s unique status as the largest participant in the Transportation Security Administration’s Screening Partnership Program. Under the SPP, private contractors handle screening instead of federal TSA employees, shielding SFO from the widespread no-show rates and funding disruptions affecting government-run checkpoints nationwide.

“Travelers at SFO continue to move efficiently through security,” airport spokesman Doug Yakel noted in recent statements. Over the past 30 days, average peak waits have stayed under 10 minutes even as passenger volumes remain robust, he added.

This efficiency stands in sharp relief against the national picture. A partial government shutdown has triggered record TSA delays, with some major hubs reporting lines exceeding four hours. TSA officials have cited officer call-out rates as high as 40-50% at certain airports, compounded by resignations and higher-than-expected spring travel demand. SFO’s private model has largely insulated it from these headaches, allowing consistent operations even during peak spring break surges that strained other facilities.

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Current Conditions at SFO Checkpoints

SFO operates six main security checkpoints serving its terminals and boarding areas:

  • International Terminal: Boarding Area A and G checkpoints typically open early and handle global flights.
  • Terminal 1, 2, 3 and 4 (Domestic): Checkpoints A, B, B-Mezzanine, D, F1 and others operate on staggered schedules, with most running from around 3:15 a.m. until late evening or early morning.

As of Thursday, most checkpoints remained open with no major closures reported beyond routine maintenance, such as occasional downtime at Boarding Area F3. TSA PreCheck is widely available, and expedited lanes like CLEAR are operational to further speed up the process for enrolled travelers.

Hourly breakdowns from aggregator sites like TakeOffTimer and AirlineAirport.com indicate:

  • Overnight/early morning (midnight to 6 a.m.): Often 5-15 minutes.
  • Morning rush (7-10 a.m.): 12-19 minutes.
  • Midday (11 a.m.-2 p.m.): 7-12 minutes.
  • Afternoon peak (3-6 p.m.): Up to 23 minutes, the daily high in recent patterns.
  • Evening: Trending back down toward 10 minutes.

These figures represent blended estimates from passenger reports, historical data and live feeds. Actual times can fluctuate based on flight banks, weather or sudden passenger surges. SFO handled millions of passengers in recent months while maintaining short queues, thanks to dedicated private screening staff not impacted by federal payroll or staffing crises.

Tips for Beating the Lines at SFO Today

Airport authorities and travel experts recommend arriving at SFO at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours for international departures. While waits are currently manageable, proactive steps can shave off precious minutes:

  1. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR: PreCheck members frequently clear in 5 minutes or less. CLEAR biometric lanes provide an additional shortcut at SFO.
  2. Download the MyTSA App: The official Transportation Security Administration mobile app lets users check real-time crowd-sourced wait times, review prohibited items and get personalized alerts. Historical data helps predict busy periods.
  3. Pack Smart: Follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule and remove laptops, liquids and large electronics early to speed screening.
  4. Monitor SFO’s Official Site: The flysfo.com alerts page posts updates on TSA lines and any temporary changes.
  5. Check Flight Status Early: Use airline apps or the airport site to track gate assignments and potential delays.

Travelers on social media and forums like Reddit’s r/AskSF and r/bayarea have echoed the positive experience. Recent posts note quick passes through PreCheck, with some flyers reporting under 10 minutes total even during busier windows. “SFO’s private TSA setup has been a lifesaver,” one frequent traveler commented.

Broader Context: Why SFO Stands Out

The contrast with other airports highlights the value of SFO’s operational model. While federal TSA facilities grapple with the effects of the shutdown — including delayed pay and reduced staffing — SFO’s contractors maintain full operations funded independently. This has prevented the kind of chaos seen elsewhere, where passengers have missed flights due to multi-hour security bottlenecks.

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Spring travel demand remains high, with many families heading out for break or business travelers resuming routines. SFO, one of the busiest gateways on the West Coast serving major carriers like United Airlines, has seen steady volumes without the extreme backups reported at hubs in the East or Midwest.

Airport officials continue to urge caution. “Even with normal waits, factors like high passenger volume or equipment issues can cause temporary spikes,” a recent advisory noted. Passengers with disabilities or those needing extra assistance should factor in additional time and contact their airline in advance.

What to Expect Later Today and This Week

Forecasts for the next 12 hours show waits staying mostly in the single digits to low teens during midday, with a possible uptick in the late afternoon. Overnight into Friday should remain light. Weekend patterns often see heavier crowds, so checking apps closer to travel time is wise.

No major runway or operational disruptions were flagged for Thursday beyond routine maintenance. However, travelers should stay alert for any last-minute alerts via the airport’s website or flight apps.

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For the latest real-time updates:

  • Visit flysfo.com for official notices.
  • Use sites like tsawaittimes.com, takeofftimer.com or onairparking.com for live estimates.
  • Report your own wait time through the MyTSA app to help fellow travelers.

SFO’s reputation for efficient security has held strong even as national air travel faces challenges. With waits today averaging well below typical busy-airport benchmarks, most passengers can expect a straightforward experience — provided they arrive prepared and monitor conditions.

As always, double-check with your airline for any flight-specific updates. Safe travels from the Bay Area’s gateway.

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UWA considering Karratha campus

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UWA considering Karratha campus

The University of Western Australia is considering establishing a tertiary education and research campus in Karratha.

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Disneyland honors 100-year-old WWII vet who witnessed Iwo Jima flag raising

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Disneyland honors 100-year-old WWII vet who witnessed Iwo Jima flag raising

A 100-year-old World War II veteran who witnessed the iconic Iwo Jima flag-raising said he thought the war was “going to be over” as cheers erupted across the battlefield — a moment honored decades later at Disneyland in an emotional ceremony.

Charles Cram, a Navy medic attached to the 5th Marine Division, was recognized Tuesday during Disneyland’s daily Flag Retreat ceremony on Main Street, U.S.A., where guests gathered and applauded as he was presented with a flag flown over the park.

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“I didn’t know what I was witnessing at that moment,” Cram told FOX Business. “But I was in the middle of history.”

Cram said he could see the American flag rising “500 to 700 feet up” over Mount Suribachi — a moment that would become one of the most recognizable images in American history.

NEW DISNEY CEO JOSH D’AMARO OFFICIALLY TAKES THE REINS FROM BOB IGER

WWII veteran Charles Cram at Disneyland castle

World War II veteran Charles Cram, 100, poses in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., during a visit honoring his service. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Unknown)

The ceremony unfolded before a crowd of park visitors, with Cram’s family — including relatives who traveled from across the country — standing nearby as he was honored for his service.

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“When we told Daddy he was coming to Disneyland, he thought he was just going on rides,” a family member said. “He had no idea any of this was really happening.”

Cram, who turned 100 on March 15, was also treated as a special guest at the park, attending a VIP viewing of a parade and meeting Donald Duck, a character that helped boost morale among U.S. troops during World War II.

FIVE DISNEYLAND EMPLOYEES HOSPITALIZED AFTER BACKSTAGE CHEMICAL INCIDENT NEAR STAR TOURS CAUSES FOUL ODOR

Charles Cram receives flag at Disneyland ceremony

World War II veteran Charles Cram, 100, receives a folded American flag during Disneyland’s Flag Retreat ceremony in Anaheim, Calif., as family and park guests look on. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Unknown)

During the ceremony, he received a framed American flag that had been flown over Disneyland.

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“This is a flag that was flown over Disneyland Park,” a presenter said during the tribute. “Thank you for everything that you’ve done.”

The ceremony is part of a long-standing tradition at Disneyland, where daily flag ceremonies have been held since the park opened in 1955 to honor U.S. service members and veterans.

A Los Angeles native, Cram served as a Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class in the U.S. Navy and was attached to the 5th Marine Division during World War II. He was among those who fought at Iwo Jima, one of the most pivotal battles of the Pacific campaign.

Charles Cram honored at Disneyland flag ceremony

World War II veteran Charles Cram, 100, is recognized during Disneyland’s Flag Retreat ceremony on Main Street, U.S.A., in Anaheim, Calif., as attendees applaud. (Courtesy of Disney Experiences / Unknown)

Reflecting on that day, Cram said the experience shaped how he views life.

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“It made me realize how precious and fragile life is,” he said to FOX Business. “And happy to still be alive.”

He said being honored at 100 years old is a reminder of how fortunate he has been.

“It reminds me how lucky I am to be alive,” Cram said.

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When asked what message he would share with younger Americans, Cram pointed to service as a lasting source of pride.

“It’s a privilege to be able to serve your country,” he said. “It’s an honor you’ll never forget.”

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Poundstretcher plans rent cuts with landlords as part of major restructure

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Discount retailer with more than 300 stores and 3,000 staff seeks to slash rents and property costs while vowing not to shut shops or cut jobs

Poundstretcher store near St Georges Retail Park in Leicester

The Poundstretcher store near St Georges Retail Park in Leicester(Image: Leicester Mercury / Chris Gordon)

Poundstretcher has unveiled proposals to ask landlords to reduce rents across its portfolio of stores as it seeks to safeguard its long-term viability, but says it has no intention of closing outlets or shedding jobs.

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The discount retailer, which has over 300 stores and 3,000 staff across the UK, confirmed the restructuring will centre on its property portfolio, with the aim of cutting rents and other shop-related costs.

It stated the proposals would “secure the long-term future of the business” and help ensure the store estate “remains sustainable over the long term”.

However, the firm emphasised there were “no planned store closures or proposed redundancies as part of the proposal”.

The group added: “Over the past year, as with many businesses in the retail sector, Poundstretcher has experienced challenging trading conditions driven by a difficult macroeconomic environment.

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“Despite a clear strategy and significant work to reduce central costs and refresh the product offering, wider pressures facing the high street have continued to impact sales and profitability.”

Poundstretcher was acquired by US investment firm Fortress, which also owns Majestic Wine, in 2024 for an undisclosed sum.

Prior to this transaction, Poundstretcher had already undergone a significant restructuring exercise involving rent reductions sanctioned by landlords as part of a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) deal agreed in 2020. The ownership and management team stated they have implemented several measures to strengthen profitability following the acquisition, including operational modifications, a revamp of the product portfolio, investment in pricing and enhanced supplier partnerships.

Andy Atkinson, chief executive of Leicestershire-based Poundstretcher, said: “This plan we’ve set out today will reduce our cost base and enable us to invest in our stores, our people and the overall customer experience.

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“This restructuring plan will help to secure the long-term future of the business by strengthening existing locations and enabling sustainable growth.”

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New laws to make it easier to cancel subscriptions

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New laws to make it easier to cancel subscriptions

Consumers will be able to cancel unwanted subscriptions ‘at the click of a button’, the government said.

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Marmite maker Unilever confirms $60bn food empire with McCormick merger

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Consumer goods giant has been bidding to move away from its food and drink brands

Unilever owns Marmite

Unilever owns famous brands including Marmite (Image: PA)

Unilever has completed a $45bn merger of its food brands with US spice and seasoning giant McCormick, creating a $60bn food and drinks conglomerate in which the London-based firm retains a majority stake.

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Unilever and its shareholders will hold 65 per cent of the new entity, with the company receiving $15.7bn (£11.6bn) in cash and the equivalent of $29.1bn (£21.9bn) in McCormick shares.

The deal represents the culmination of a long-planned drive from Unilever to divest itself of its food brands, as incoming chief executive Fernando Fernandez bids to transform his consumer giant into a “sharper and faster” company. The Magnum Ice Cream Company was spun out of Unilever last year.

Prior to the latest merger being confirmed, analysts had suggested that an outright sale would be unlikely, given that the financial scale of Unilever’s food division far exceeds that of McCormick.

London-based Unilever had been edging towards an agreement with McCormick since confirming talks earlier this month, stating that its food brands constitute a “highly attractive” business with a “strong financial profile”, as reported by City AM.

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Unilever food brands include mayonnaise producer Hellmann’s, Marmite and Bovril.

Fernandez said: “For Unilever, this transaction is another decisive step in sharpening our portfolio and accelerating our strategy towards high-growth categories.”

The new chief executive intends to deliver €800m in savings over three years and cut 7,500 jobs – among them 200 managerial roles – as he takes direct aim at “mediocrity” within the business. Activist investor Nelson Peltz has been pushing for Unilever to streamline its portfolio since acquiring a stake in 2022. Peltz, the founder of Trian Partners, has held a non-executive position on the FTSE 100 company’s board since building out his stake four years ago.

Brendan Foley, McCormick’s chief executive officer, said: “This combination will create a diversified flavor leader with a robust growth profile that remains differentiated by its focus on flavoring calories while others compete for them.”

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Russ Mold, AJ Bell investment director, said: “Having slimmed down, Unilever will want to show it is fighting fit for the future and it will get its next opportunity to do so with next month’s first-quarter update.”

Unilever food operations in the UK include its plant in Burton-on-Trent, which is home to brands such as Marmite and Bovril and also makes Hellmann’s and Colman’s products. Unilever also has a Pot Noodle factory in Crumlin, South Wales.

Earlier on Tuesday it emerged that Unilever had implemented an immediate recruitment freeze as it braced itself against costs arising from the Iran war.

The company, which had already scaled back recruitment as part of a wide-ranging cost-reduction programme, informed staff that the hiring ban would affect “all levels” of recruitment and was introduced in response to the “significant challenges” posed by the crisis in the Middle East.

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Considerable transit disruption across the Middle East is driving up shipping costs, while the production of plastic packaging is also becoming increasingly expensive. Fabian Garcia, the head of Unilever’s personal care division, wrote in a memo first reported by Reuters: “Macro economic and geopolitical realities, especially in the Middle East conflict […] bring some significant challenges for the coming few months.

“With this in mind, the Unilever Leadership Executive team has agreed a global recruitment freeze at all levels. This will be effective immediately and last for a minimum of three months.”

The consumer goods giant stated it had taken the measures in response to an “uncertain” external environment, adding that it would revise its strategy “as necessary”.

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JetBlue raises baggage fees for economy flyers amid surging fuel prices

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JetBlue raises baggage fees for economy flyers amid surging fuel prices

JetBlue is raising baggage fees by $4–$9 for economy passengers, citing increasing jet fuel prices due to global oil supply shortages amid the Iran war.

“As we experience rising operating costs, we regularly evaluate how to manage those costs while keeping base fares competitive and continuing to invest in the experience our customers value,” JetBlue wrote in a statement to FOX Business. “Adjusting fees for optional services used by select customers, such as checked baggage, allows us to continue offering more competitive fares while delivering the onboard experience our customers love, including complimentary snacks and drinks, unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi and seatback entertainment screens.”

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“While we recognize that fee increases are never ideal, we take careful consideration to ensure these changes are implemented only when necessary,” the statement continued.

For domestic, Caribbean and Latin America flights, the first checked bag will now cost $39 during off-peak travel, up from $35, and $49 during peak periods, up from $40. Travelers who pay less than 24 hours before departure will still face an added $10 charge.

A passenger stands with luggage at a self-service kiosk in a JetBlue terminal area at Philadelphia International Airport.

JetBlue has raised checked bag fees up to $9 for economy bookings amid the temporary rise in global fuel prices due to shortages from the shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz. (Ryan Collerd/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)

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Passengers with eligible JetBlue co-branded credit cards or elite frequent flyer status remain exempt from the bag fees.

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When an airline raises fees, competitors often follow, but there are no indications yet from American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines or Frontier Airlines.

Southwest does not “have any immediate plans to increase fees due to macroeconomic factors,” a spokesperson told the New York Post.

Three commercial passenger airplanes from different international carriers move along a runway at a major U.S. airport.

Historically, other airlines have tended to react to rising prices on baggage fees when one airline acts. (Kevin Carter/Getty / Getty Images)

WALTZ SAYS TRUMP IS USING IRAN’S OWN OIL STRATEGY AGAINST ITSELF TO DRIVE DOWN GLOBAL PRICES

The move reflects broader pressure on airlines as fuel prices surge globally following the U.S. and Israel’s attacks on Iran that began on Feb. 28. Jet fuel in major U.S. markets averaged $4.62 a gallon Tuesday morning, up more than 83% from the day before the war began, according to Argus data published by Airlines for America.

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“The reality is, jet fuel prices have more than doubled in the last three weeks,” United CEO Scott Kirby wrote in a memo to employees earlier in March. “If prices stayed at this level, it would mean an extra $11B in annual expense just for jet fuel. For perspective, in United’s best year ever, we made less than $5B. That may sound scary, but the first piece of good news is that, for now at least, demand remains the strongest we’ve ever seen. The 10 biggest booked revenue weeks in our history have been the last 10 weeks.”

TRUMP SEEKS WARSHIPS FROM OTHER COUNTRIES TO HELP SECURE STRAIT OF HORMUZ

Kirby added, however, that “it may be a challenge to continue passing through much of the increased fuel price if oil stays higher for longer.”

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President Donald Trump, with his business eye on affordability amid the war, took to Truth Social on Tuesday morning urging oil-needy countries globally to lean in to deal with their supply shortages.

“All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!”

US ‘LOCKED AND LOADED’ TO DESTROY IRAN’S ‘CROWN JEWEL’ ‘IF WE WANT,’ TRUMP WARNS

While this jet fuel price is the highest of the year, with a steady upward trend line since the start of the war, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Fox News that the fuel price increases are temporary due to strains on global fuel supply.

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It is tied to the Iranian retaliation on choking the Hormuz Strait, where the forced closure is increasing oil prices globally in an anticipation of supply shortages.

Strait of Hormuz at standstill

About 20% of the world’s oil supply crosses the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Iran. The Iranian Regime is threatening to attack any vessels that cross the strait without permission. (FOX / Fox News)

Supplying the world more oil from Iran is going to ultimately bring down prices in America, according to Bessent, who noted the U.S. does not rely on Middle East oil but the Strait of Hormuz choking has spooked crude futures markets.

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Bessent said the U.S. has avoided striking Iranian energy infrastructure even while escalating military operations, arguing the goal is to preserve supply while keeping pressure on Tehran.

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“We have lots of levers,” Bessent said. “We’ve got plenty more that we can do.”

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Dunkin’ Gives Away 1,000,001 Cups With ‘StillNotAJoke’ Code

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Dunkin', formerly known as Dunkin' Donuts, redesigned their cups.

SAN FRANCISCO — Coffee lovers across the country, including those in the Bay Area, woke up Wednesday to a genuine April Fools’ Day treat: the chance to score a free hot or iced coffee from Dunkin’, with no purchase necessary and no elaborate prank attached.

Dunkin', formerly known as Dunkin' Donuts, redesigned their cups.
Dunkin’, formerly known as Dunkin’ Donuts, redesigned their cups.

Dunkin’ announced it is giving away 1,000,001 free coffees of any size to its Rewards members on April 1, 2026, continuing and slightly expanding its popular annual promotion. The offer, available exclusively through the Dunkin’ mobile app, requires users to enter the promo code “STILLNOTAJOKE.” Once claimed, the free drink — hot or iced brewed coffee, any size up to large — can be redeemed within seven days at participating locations.

As of early Wednesday morning, the code went live and began circulating rapidly on social media, with users posting photos of successful redemptions. “I just got mine — thanks for the tip!” one Bay Area resident shared online after visiting a local Dunkin’ spot. The promotion mirrors last year’s giveaway of 1 million free coffees but adds one extra cup this time, a playful nod to the holiday’s spirit of surprise without the deception.

Dunkin’ officials emphasized the deal is real. “No tricks, just a coffee run, on Dunkin’,” the company stated in promotional materials. The giveaway targets Rewards members, who can sign up for free in the app if they haven’t already. While supplies of the 1,000,001 redemptions last, early birds had the best shot as word spread quickly through Instagram, TikTok and local news alerts.

How to Claim Your Free Dunkin’ Coffee Today

The process is straightforward but time-sensitive:

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  1. Download or open the Dunkin’ app on your smartphone.
  2. Ensure you are logged into a Dunkin’ Rewards account (free to join).
  3. Navigate to the offers or rewards section and enter the code STILLNOTAJOKE.
  4. Add the free hot or iced coffee to your order — any size qualifies, though some reports note exclusions for extra-large or specialty drinks like cold brew in certain redemptions.
  5. Head to a participating Dunkin’ location to redeem, ideally within the next week.

Travelers passing through San Francisco International Airport or commuters in Hwaseong-si equivalents in the U.S. can check nearby outlets via the app’s store locator. Many Bay Area locations, from downtown San Francisco to suburban spots in the Peninsula and East Bay, participate.

Social media buzzed with excitement and caution. Posts warned that the limited quantity could vanish fast, echoing last year’s rush. One user in the Bay Area posted screenshots confirming redemption before 8 a.m. local time, while others reported success later in the morning. “Go get your free coffee from Dunkin’, I just got one,” a California poster shared alongside morning photos.

Other April Fools’ Day Food and Drink Promotions

While Dunkin’ stole the spotlight with its massive free coffee drop, other chains offered their own April Fools’-themed deals Wednesday:

  • Krispy Kreme: Rewards members could buy any dozen doughnuts and add an Original Glazed dozen for just $4.01 — a numerical wink at the date. The offer encouraged sweet treats alongside morning caffeine.
  • Additional food and drink promotions popped up across the country, ranging from buy-one-get-one deals at fast-casual spots to limited-time discounts at coffee competitors, though none matched Dunkin’s scale for outright freebies.

Local Bay Area coffee shops and independent cafes stayed mostly quiet on major giveaways, focusing instead on standard menus or lighthearted social media posts. Some encouraged customers to “prank” friends by treating them to a cup, turning the day into a community perk.

Why Brands Love April Fools’ Marketing

April Fools’ Day has become prime real estate for brands to blend humor with customer appreciation. Dunkin’s promotion builds loyalty among its Rewards base while generating massive earned media. Last year’s 1 million-coffee giveaway created waves of positive coverage and user-generated content, driving app downloads and foot traffic.

This year’s “one more” twist keeps the momentum going. Marketing experts note that such campaigns perform well because they feel generous without requiring heavy spending from consumers. For Dunkin’, which operates thousands of locations nationwide, the cost is offset by increased visits, potential add-on purchases like donuts or breakfast sandwiches, and long-term customer retention.

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In the Bay Area, where coffee culture runs deep — from artisanal roasters in San Francisco to drive-thru convenience — the deal resonated with commuters and remote workers alike. Many paired the free brew with a quick stop for a breakfast item, turning a simple perk into a full morning routine.

Tips for Maximizing Free Coffee and Avoiding Disappointment

  • Act fast: With only 1,000,001 redemptions available, enter the code as soon as possible. Some users reported the offer remained active into the afternoon, but crowds at popular locations picked up.
  • Check eligibility: The deal is strictly for Rewards members via the app. Non-members should sign up immediately — it takes minutes and unlocks future perks like points on purchases.
  • Redeem wisely: After claiming, you have up to seven days. Plan your visit to avoid peak hours if possible, though many locations handled the extra demand smoothly.
  • Pair with other deals: Look for stackable offers in the app or combine with any current promotions. Some locations offered breakfast specials that complemented the free coffee.
  • Share the love: Even if you miss out, snapping a photo of a friend’s redemption or tagging Dunkin’ on social media keeps the fun going.

For those in the San Francisco Bay Area, apps like Google Maps or the Dunkin’ locator can pinpoint the nearest store. SFO travelers should note that while airport Dunkin’ spots exist in some terminals, availability may vary — better to grab one before security or upon landing if time allows.

Broader Context: April Fools’ Day in 2026

This year’s promotions arrived amid typical spring travel and work routines. With many Americans back in offices or heading out for midweek errands, a free coffee provided a welcome boost. Unlike past years when some brands leaned into elaborate fake announcements that frustrated consumers, Dunkin’ kept it transparent and deliverable from the start.

Consumer advocacy groups applauded the approach, noting it builds trust rather than testing it. “When brands deliver real value on a day known for jokes, it stands out,” one retail analyst observed.

As the day progressed, reports indicated strong uptake but no widespread complaints of shortages at most locations. Social feeds filled with satisfied customers enjoying their complimentary cups, some joking that the real prank would be running out of creamer at home.

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What to Watch for Later Today and Beyond

The promo code “STILLNOTAJOKE” is tied to April 1 entry, but redemptions extend for a week. If you claimed it early, you can enjoy your free coffee anytime through April 8. Those who missed the initial rush can still monitor the app for any surprise extensions or related offers.

Dunkin’ has not announced similar nationwide freebies for the rest of the week, but its Rewards program regularly features points multipliers, discounted drinks and bundled meals. Signing up ensures you won’t miss future surprises — April Fools’ or otherwise.

For the latest updates, check the official Dunkin’ app, website or social channels. Local news outlets in the Bay Area and across the U.S. also tracked the promotion in real time.

Whether you’re starting your day in San Francisco, commuting from the suburbs, or traveling through SFO, Dunkin’s giveaway offered a simple, uplifting moment on a day otherwise filled with skepticism. No fooling — sometimes the best surprises are the ones you can actually taste.

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Safe sipping, and happy April Fools’ Day from the West Coast.

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Bar innovations building momentum

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The bar category continues to be a hotbed for product introductions.

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