From Taylor Swift to the Moon: only the 1969 moon landing was seen more than the Super Bowl in the history of American television
The NFL always manages to overcome obstacles and find new opportunities for success. Despite challenges such as the retirement of Tom Brady, controversies involving franchise owners, racist emails from coaches, and the controversial treatment of Colin Kaepernick, the NFL continues to thrive. It has even managed to capitalize on the “Swift effect,” referring to the positive impact of Taylor Swift’s presence. League commissioner Roger Goodell acknowledged the blessing that Swift brings to the NFL, and the league was quick to ride the wave of popularity that follows her.
The Super Bowl, which saw the Kansas City Chiefs defeat the San Francisco 49ers in an exciting overtime match (25-22), attracted an estimated audience of 120 million viewers. This makes it the most watched Super Bowl ever, surpassing the previous record set by the Chiefs’ victory over Philadelphia the previous year with an audience of 115.1 million. Such a milestone goes beyond the realm of sports and compares only to significant historical events like the moon landing in 1969, which drew 150 million viewers. Football has become an integral part of American culture.
However, the Super Bowl is not just about the sport itself. The NFL understands the value of entertainment and spectacle. The game between the Chiefs and the 49ers provided all the excitement, unexpected turns, and heroic moments that could easily fit into a Hollywood script. The Chiefs’ quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, displayed his magic on the field, leading a remarkable comeback and securing his team’s victory. With his talent and potential, Mahomes has a long and promising career ahead of him.
Yet, the Super Bowl showcased more than just athletic prowess. Taylor Swift, accompanied by her boyfriend Travis Kelce, Kansas City’s second-biggest star, watched the game from a box seat. The NFL took advantage of the presence of these stars, documenting their every move and sharing it with the audience. Swift engaged with the crowd by participating in a beer-chugging competition and gracefully responding to the boos she received. Meanwhile, Kelce faced his own drama on the field, initially expressing frustration towards his coach but ultimately delivering an outstanding performance. The image of Swift and Kelce sharing a happy kiss on the grass captured the world’s attention, and the NFL seized the opportunity to further engage its massive audience.
In the end, the NFL, Patrick Mahomes, and Taylor Swift emerged as winners. The league’s ability to adapt, capitalize on opportunities, and merge sports with entertainment solidifies its position as a powerhouse in the American landscape.