The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are not just about the athletes competing in the games. With celebrities like Colin Jost, Leslie Jones, Snoop Dogg, and Flavor Flav also making appearances, it feels more like an episode of Saturday Night Live than a sporting event. NBC has fully embraced this celebrity element, possibly in response to declining ratings in past Olympics.
One of the reasons for declining ratings is the impossibility of tape-delaying events in a world where people watch things in real-time online. NBC is now focusing on providing more engaging and entertaining coverage in primetime to attract viewers who are already aware of the results. Incorporating celebrities to provide commentary and add some surreal humor seems to be working in their favor.
Snoop Dogg has been a prominent presence at the Olympics, not only carrying the torch during the Opening Ceremony but also offering commentary during track and field events. Leslie Jones, on the other hand, has been live-tweeting multiple events while also engaging with athletes and fans on social media. Flavor Flav has also become a unique figure at the games, serving as the official hype man for the U.S. women’s water polo team and sponsoring them as well.
These celebrity appearances add a new dimension to the Olympics, attracting viewers who may not be traditional sports fans but enjoy the entertainment value of seeing familiar faces in unexpected roles. NBC is leveraging the popularity of these celebrities to maintain viewership and create buzz around the Games. Colin Jost’s humorous reporting on surfing competitions also adds to the overall entertainment factor of the event.
The presence of these celebrities not only adds entertainment value to the Olympics but also reflects a shift in how sports events are being covered and consumed in the digital age. With the rise of social media and streaming platforms, traditional broadcasters like NBC need to innovate and find new ways to engage audiences. By incorporating celebrities into their coverage, they are able to appeal to a wider demographic and create a more interactive viewing experience for fans.
