The Summer Olympics in Paris have garnered attention from millions of viewers in the U.S., and a significant part of their experience has been the presence of Snoop Dogg. This iconic hip-hop artist has diversified his portfolio by becoming a sports commentator and entertainer at the Games in Paris. NBC Sports reported a 79% increase in the total audience delivery average compared to the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, attributing much of this success to the inclusion of celebrities like Snoop Dogg. Molly Solomon, NBC’s executive producer of the Olympics, described Snoop Dogg as an “ambassador of happiness,” highlighting his positive vibes and charisma that resonated with viewers.
Snoop Dogg’s presence at the Paris Olympics has not gone unnoticed on social media. From cheering alongside Olympians’ family members to taking swimming lessons from Olympic legend Michael Phelps, Snoop Dogg has created viral moments that have captured the attention of audiences worldwide. His interactions with athletes, families, and even tennis legend Billie Jean King have showcased his versatility and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Viewers like Krissy Birdsall have found his unique perspective refreshing, adding a new dimension to the world of track and field at the Games.
NBCUniversal made a strategic decision to leverage Snoop Dogg’s popularity for the Paris Olympics, building on the success of his involvement in the 2021 Tokyo Games. The rapper’s collaboration with comedian Kevin Hart on Peacock garnered significant attention, leading to increased viewership despite the challenges faced by the Tokyo Olympics. NBC executives recognized Snoop Dogg’s appeal and decided to expand his role in the Olympics broadcast, aiming to tell the athletes’ stories in a unique and engaging way. Snoop Dogg’s early arrival in Paris, his rapport with athletes, and his genuine enthusiasm for the Games have made him a valuable asset for NBC’s coverage.
One of the key attributes that sets Snoop Dogg apart is his versatility as an entertainer. Whether he is interviewing American athletes in USA gear or donning a Ralph Lauren blazer at the Games, Snoop Dogg has managed to transcend traditional sporting events and appeal to a broader audience. John Fortunato, a communications and media management professor, emphasizes Snoop Dogg’s ability to connect with fans on a personal level, bringing a fresh and engaging perspective to the Olympics. His presence at various events and his dynamic personality have contributed to the popularity of the Paris Olympics, attracting a diverse range of viewers.
Fans can look forward to seeing more of Snoop Dogg on NBC and Peacock in the coming months, as he joins the coaching seats on “The Voice.” While some viewers like Jenna Mindes have expressed reservations about the inclusion of celebrities in the Olympics, citing concerns about diluting the authenticity of the sports, NBC Sports President Rick Cordella believes that Snoop Dogg’s presence has helped popularize the Games. By incorporating elements of pop culture and celebrity, NBC has taken a different approach to engaging audiences and revitalizing interest in the Olympics following the challenges of previous Games.
The Paris Olympics have marked a resurgence in viewership following the Tokyo Olympics, which faced numerous challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, lack of live events on streaming platforms, and a significant time difference for U.S. viewers. The opening ceremony in Paris attracted 28.6 million viewers, surpassing the numbers from previous Games and becoming the most-watched Opening Ceremony since the 2012 London Olympics. Snoop Dogg’s unexpected role as a prominent figure at the Games reflects his childhood dream of participating in the Olympics and his genuine enthusiasm for supporting Team USA.
Snoop Dogg’s impact on the Paris Olympics has been significant, capturing the hearts of viewers and redefining the way celebrities engage with sporting events. His role as an ambassador of happiness, social media sensation, and versatile entertainer has helped NBCUniversal enhance its coverage of the Games and attract a wider audience. Despite initial skepticism about the inclusion of celebrities in the Olympics, Snoop Dogg’s presence has proven to be a game-changer, revitalizing interest in the Games and setting a new standard for engaging viewers in a digital age. As the Paris Olympics continue to unfold, Snoop Dogg’s legacy as a cultural icon and sports enthusiast will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
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