Super Bowl 2026 is almost here. And, as usual, it’s one of those rare sports events where the commercial breaks will capture almost as much attention as the on-field action.

Super Bowl commercials have pretty much become a cultural event of their own. At Panoply Media, we spend our days thinking about ways to connect brands with audiences in ways which are memorable and impactful.

So ahead of kickoff, we asked a few team members one simple question: What are your favourite Super Bowl ads of all time, and why do they still stick with you?

Here’s what they picked 👇

Aliya Varma - Account Manager

Sabra (2020): From Ric Flair to Chester Cheetah and Miz Cracker to Mel B, these individuals explain how they "'Mmus" - whether it be dipping chips, pretzels, banana or entire crab legs into their preferred flavor of hummus. The spot featured visually compelling sets and a jaw-dropping cast of 19 celebrities and influencers sharing their favorite and unique ways to enjoy hummus. Sabra’s spot stood out for leaning into bold humor and representation.

Cheetos (2021): Featuring Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, and Shaggy, this ad nailed nostalgia while staying self-aware. It’s funny, instantly memorable, and perfectly aligned with the brand’s mischievous tone.

Bianca Di Loreto - Strategist

Always (2015): One of the most powerful purpose-driven ads ever to air during the Super Bowl, this campaign reframed a common insult into a message of empowerment - and sparked a cultural conversation that extended far beyond game day.

Volkswagen (2011): Broadcast before the Star Wars sequel revival, this showcased a small story with massive emotional payoff. Just a kid, a car, and a perfectly timed reveal - simple, charming, and endlessly rewatchable. And honestly, who HASN’T tried to use the Force like this themselves at some point?

Forest Kenney - Sr. Media Partner

Budweiser (2006): Few brands own Super Bowl storytelling like Budweiser. This is one which sticks in the memory, blending tradition, pride and emotional resonance into a spot which leaves a powerful impression.

Budweiser (2014): Budweiser again. If there’s a shortcut to Super Bowl greatness, it might be a puppy. And this ad goes to show that you don’t have to be human to form a bond with man’s best friend. This one has all the feels.

Joao Renato - Data Analyst

Workday (2023): This ad leaned fully into star power and absurdity. It poked fun at how misused the term “rockstar” is in the corporate world, while packing in a huge amount of cameos - with the late, great Ozzy Osbourne stealing the show. As usual.

Nicholas Landry - Vice President, Operations

Budweiser (1995): This one might be more than 30 years old now, but it’s an ad which became part of pop culture almost instantly. Three syllables. One unforgettable moment. It shows how simplicity, repetition, and absurdity can create a catchphrase which lasts for decades.