The renowned Minions from Illumination surprised Team USA track & field stars Noah Lyles, Ryan Crouser, and Anna Hall in a promotional clip for NBCUniversal’s coverage of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the release of Illumination’s Despicable Me 4. This 30-second spot premiered on TODAY and will air throughout the summer.
In the ad, Olympic medalists Lyles, Crouser, and Hall are focused on training when a particularly loud Minion disrupts their concentration with his antics. Soon, a whole stadium of Minions joins in, dancing to the tune of House of Pain’s “Jump Around.” The spot culminates in a lively scene where the athletes and Minions jump together. Following this playful moment, graphics appear for both the Paris Olympics, commencing with the Opening Ceremony on July 26, and for Illumination’s Despicable Me 4, hitting theaters nationwide on July 3.
“We aimed to showcase these extraordinary athletes while capturing the unexpected humor and delight of the Minions,” stated Chris Meledandri, Illumination’s Founder and CEO. “Given that Illumination’s animation studio resides in Paris, and with NBCUniversal broadcasting the games in the U.S., we’re especially excited for this collaboration,” he added.
Jenny Storms, Chief Marketing Officer of NBCUniversal Entertainment and Sports, commented, “For Noah, Ryan, and Anna, the Minions may not be ideal training partners, but they sure know how to celebrate. They are a beloved part of the NBC Olympics family, and we’re thrilled to feature them in our campaign for the Paris Games.”
David O’Connor, President of Global Franchise Management & Partnerships at Universal Pictures, remarked, “This vibrant spot celebrates our incredible Olympians alongside their spirited yellow counterparts, the Minions. Illumination’s Minions continue to captivate global audiences, making them perfect partners and ambassadors for our iconic brands.”
The Minions, who debuted in 2010’s Despicable Me and have since become the highest-grossing animated franchise, are central to this collaboration. They feature prominently in all four Despicable Me films, as well as their own movies and theme park attractions worldwide.
Noah Lyles, a six-time world champion, is preparing for his second Olympic appearance, aiming for his first gold in Paris after an outstanding 2023 season. Ryan Crouser, the dominant figure in shot put, seeks to secure a historic third consecutive Olympic gold. Anna Hall, fresh from breaking records in her rookie season, is determined to shine after her success at the 2023 World Championships.
NBC and Peacock will provide extensive coverage of the Paris 2024 Olympics, starting with the Opening Ceremony on July 26 at Noon ET. The Games will unfold against the backdrop of Paris, a city with a rich Olympic history and renowned landmarks hosting various competitions.
For more details on NBCUniversal’s coverage of the Olympic Games Paris 2024, visit their official platforms.
