The Summer Olympics in Paris have garnered a significant amount of attention in the U.S., with Snoop Dogg playing a prominent role in the coverage. The total audience delivery average for the first five days of the Olympics was 34 million viewers, a substantial increase of 79% from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Executives from Comcast’s NBCUniversal, the broadcaster of the Games in the U.S., have highlighted not only the success of their production but also the influence of celebrities like Snoop Dogg. Molly Solomon, the executive producer of the Olympics at NBC, referred to Snoop Dogg as an “ambassador of happiness” during a recent press call. She emphasized his positive vibes and charisma, which have resonated with viewers and fans alike.
Snoop Dogg’s presence at the Olympics has generated considerable buzz on social media, with clips of him cheering alongside Olympians’ family members, interacting with athletes, and even taking swimming lessons from Olympic legend Michael Phelps. He has been capturing viral moments, such as cheering alongside U.S. swimmer Caeleb Dressel’s wife and baby son during their gold medal win and dancing in the crowd while the U.S. women’s gymnastics team performed. His ability to connect with athletes and fans on a personal level has made him a standout figure at the Paris Olympics.
NBCUniversal has been banking on the success of the Paris Olympics and Snoop Dogg’s involvement for several years now. The rapper first appeared at the Olympics in 2021 when he hosted a highlight show on Peacock with comedian Kevin Hart. Despite lackluster viewership for the Tokyo Games, Snoop Dogg’s show garnered significant attention, with various clips going viral. NBC’s executives recognized his potential and met with him to discuss his future role in the Olympics broadcast. Snoop Dogg’s early arrival in Paris and his genuine interactions with athletes have solidified his position as a key contributor to the Games’ success.
Snoop Dogg’s versatility and ability to transcend different environments have been a major factor in his appeal to audiences. Whether he is interviewing athletes, participating in sports activities, or simply engaging with fans, his charismatic presence shines through. He has been seen wearing USA gear and interacting with star athletes, showcasing his passion for the Olympics and his genuine interest in the sports and the athletes themselves. His down-to-earth approach and relatable persona have made him a favorite among viewers of all ages.
While some viewers appreciate the inclusion of celebrities like Snoop Dogg in the Olympics coverage, others have expressed reservations about the trend. Some feel that the presence of celebrities detracts from the focus on the athletes and the sports themselves. However, NBC Sports President Rick Cordella believes that the incorporation of pop culture and celebrities has helped to popularize the Paris Olympics and attract a broader audience. Shows like “Gold Zone” on Peacock, featuring multiple live sports simultaneously, have also been successful in engaging viewers and enhancing the Olympic experience.
The success of the Paris Olympics marks a significant turnaround from the challenges faced by the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. With issues like the Covid-19 pandemic, limited fan attendance, and a lack of live events on streaming platforms, the Tokyo Games struggled to capture widespread attention. In contrast, the Paris Olympics have seen a surge in viewership, with the opening ceremony attracting a record number of viewers. Snoop Dogg’s enthusiastic participation and genuine enjoyment of the Games have contributed to the overall positive reception of the event.
Snoop Dogg’s impact on the Paris Olympics has been undeniable. His infectious energy, genuine interactions with athletes, and engaging presence have resonated with viewers and fans, making him a standout personality in the coverage of the Games. Despite some criticism of the inclusion of celebrities in the Olympics, Snoop Dogg’s role has been widely celebrated and appreciated. As the Paris Olympics continue to unfold, Snoop Dogg’s influence is sure to remain a central part of the event’s success and entertainment value.