Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is clucking up the hype for Super Bowl LVIII with Popeye’s first Superbowl ad in the Big Game. And they’re doing it in style, with a hilarious commercial featuring comedian Ken Jeong.
The ad, titled “Wings for Wings,” is a clever play on the phrase “win or lose.” It opens with Jeong emerging from a cryogenic pod, declaring that he’s waited 52 years for “perfection.” As it turns out, that perfection is Popeyes’ legendary fried chicken wings.
The ad cuts to a montage of people enjoying Popeyes wings in various scenarios, from a backyard barbecue to a fancy restaurant. The message is clear: Popeyes wings are for everyone, and they’re the ultimate way to celebrate any occasion.
But the real star of the show is Jeong. His comedic timing is impeccable, and he delivers his lines with infectious enthusiasm. He’s the perfect choice to represent Popeyes’ fun-loving brand personality. His most recognizable roles are from being in The Hangover, and on the sitcom Community but this commercial is particularly special as his own dog, Mocha appears alongside him in it.
Jeong also practices what he preaches, hitting Popeye’s on late-night runs. He said in an interview:
“It was not uncommon after a long night, after a shift, that I would go to Popeyes and just treat myself,” Jeong said. “Even when I did a commencement speech there a couple of years ago and one my big requests was a Popeyes spicy chicken sandwich.”
He continued on the subject of the Superbowl and how grateful he is to be participating in an ad running during the game:
“I’m sure it’s kind of a kin to when players go to multiple Super Bowls. Sometimes, the first time you do it and you’re like, ‘Wow I’m just so happy to be here’ and then if you’re fortunate enough to do it subsequent times you want to take on more responsibility and make it good. To me, the responsibility to do Popeyes’ first ever Super Bowl ad? I remember thinking to myself, ‘I have done this before and I’m grateful that Popeyes has trusted me to run the ball.’”
A Smart Move for Popeyes
Appearing in the Super Bowl is a major investment for any brand. But for Popeyes, it’s a smart move. The game is watched by millions of people, and it’s a great opportunity to reach a new audience and generate brand awareness.
Popeyes is also hoping to capitalize on the growing popularity of fried chicken. According to a recent report, the fried chicken market is expected to reach $26.9 billion by 2026.
With its hilarious Super Bowl ad, Popeyes is well-positioned to take a bite out of that market. So, whether you’re a die-hard Popeyes fan or just looking for a good laugh, be sure to tune in to Super Bowl LVIII and check out their commercial. You won’t be disappointed.
He added, “You take it as much as much of a responsibility as it is a privilege.”
Late last year Popeye’s added Wings to the menu permanently in 5 varieties including, Ghost Pepper. Previously the chain had been testing new varieties before trying them out in the field in limited markets. In fact, they will be giving out free wings if a “winged” football team wins the Superbowl.
Chief Marketing Officer for Popeyes Jeff Klein said on the offer:
“The best combo in the world is football, wings, and a little wager. We are making a bet with Popeyes fans in the U.S. and Canada that if a football team with wings wins it all, then we will give everyone Popeyes NEW chicken Wings to celebrate.”
