Snoop Dogg Takes Center Stage at the Paris Olympics
The Paris Olympics have been capturing the attention of millions of viewers in the United States, and one unexpected star of the show has been none other than Snoop Dogg. The rapper turned sports commentator and entertainer has been making waves with his appearances and coverage at the Games.
According to NBC Sports, the opening ceremony alone drew in 28.6 million viewers, surpassing the numbers from both the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and the Rio Games in 2016. In fact, the five-day total audience delivery average for the Paris Olympics has been 34 million viewers, a significant 79% increase from the previous Games.
Executives at Comcast’s NBCUniversal, which is the broadcaster for the Olympics in the U.S., have been praising not only the success of their production but also the inclusion of celebrities like Snoop Dogg in the coverage. Molly Solomon, NBC’s executive producer of the Olympics, referred to him as an “ambassador of happiness,” noting his positive energy and charisma.
Snoop Dogg’s popularity has been evident on social media, where he has generated considerable buzz. From cheering alongside Olympians’ family members to taking selfies with athletes, he has become a favorite among fans. Viral moments, such as his cheering alongside U.S. swimmer Caeleb Dressel’s family and his swimming lesson from Olympic legend Michael Phelps, have only added to his appeal.
But what makes Snoop Dogg such a hit at the Olympics? According to John Fortunato, a professor of communications and media management, it’s his relatability to the audience as a fan. He brings a different perspective and injects personality into the coverage, making it more engaging for viewers.
Snoop Dogg’s journey to the Olympics began in 2021 when he hosted a highlight show with Kevin Hart on Peacock. Although the Tokyo Games had lackluster viewership, their show captured the audience’s attention, with various clips going viral. NBC’s executives recognized Snoop Dogg’s potential and met with him to discuss his role in future Olympics broadcasts.
The rapper’s dedication to telling the athletes’ stories and his genuine enthusiasm for the games have made him a valuable asset to NBC’s coverage. He has been spotted at various events, donning USA gear and interviewing American athletes. His versatility and ability to transcend different roles have made him a favorite among both the millennial and Gen X audience.
However, not everyone is thrilled with the inclusion of celebrities in the Olympics. Some fans feel that it dilutes the sport and takes away from the seriousness of the competition. While celebrities like Snoop Dogg bring entertainment value, there is a concern that it might overshadow the athletes and their achievements.
Nevertheless, NBC Sports President Rick Cordella believes that the inclusion of pop culture and celebrities, including Snoop Dogg, has helped popularize the Paris Olympics. Shows like Peacock’s “Gold Zone” and the watch-along show hosted by Alex Cooper have become hits, attracting a significant audience.
The success of the Paris Olympics comes after the lowest-rated Summer Olympics in Tokyo last year and the lesser-watched Winter Olympics in Beijing earlier this year. The Tokyo Games faced several challenges, from the pandemic-related delay to the absence of family and fans at the events. In contrast, the Paris Olympics have been able to capture the attention of viewers with their engaging coverage and the inclusion of beloved celebrities like Snoop Dogg.
For Snoop Dogg, being a part of the Olympics has been a dream come true. In an interview with NBC Nightly News, he expressed his excitement and shared that he never expected to play such a role. As he cheers on the U.S. athletes at the games, he feels like the biggest kid in the crowd.
In conclusion, Snoop Dogg’s presence at the Paris Olympics has been a major highlight of the Games. His infectious enthusiasm, relatability, and ability to connect with the audience have made him a fan favorite. While there are concerns about the inclusion of celebrities in the Olympics, there is no denying the positive impact Snoop Dogg has had on the viewership and popularity of the Paris Games.
