Oscar-winner Adrien Brody is trading dramatic intensity for comedic relief in his first Super Bowl ad in 15 years. The TurboTax spot, which premieres next month, hilariously plays on his ‘heavy, dramatic’ persona, a move the actor calls ‘really liberating’ and a chance to show off his funny bone.
The actor, 52, is set to star in his second-ever in-game commercial, and his first in 15 years, when Super Bowl LX takes place next month. In a teaser for the official spot, Brody plays a TurboTax agent, poking fun at the perception that his serious acting roles define him.
“TurboTax came up with this concept that is just so fun, hilarious and relatable,” Brody tells PEOPLE. “I think the idea of the complexity and drama of tax season, and me, as a dramatic actor, wanting to delve deep into that, and not being able to do it because TurboTax makes it drama-free and easy, is hilarious.”
The commercial’s premise hinges on a clever juxtaposition. Audiences know Adrien Brody from his Oscar-winning turn in The Pianist and other intense, weighty performances. The ad humorously suggests that even an actor known for deep, emotional gravitas would be overwhelmed by the supposed “drama” of tax season, only to be saved by TurboTax’s simplicity.
“To make fun of the perception of me being this heavy, dramatic actor is really a blast and so fun, and it’s really liberating,” Brody explains. “I think people have this misconception that if one does serious dramatic work, or if one gravitates toward that kind of work often, that he or she doesn’t have a funny bone. But I love comedy, and I love the idea of making fun of myself.”
This isn’t just a one-off gig; it’s a strategic play for one of the biggest advertising nights of the year. The campaign is extensive, with a 45-second version of the ad set to air just before halftime. A 30-second teaser will be shown during the pre-game, and a separate 15-second spot will hit screens before kickoff for the game between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks.
An extended two-minute cut of the commercial will also be released, running on the brand’s digital channels, in its new retail locations, and in cinemas nationwide. For Brody, who will soon make his Broadway debut in The Fear of 13, the experience of working with I, Tonya director Craig Gillespie was a welcome change of pace.
“It was just so enjoyable, from the atmosphere on set to everyone laughing, and they allowed a degree of improvisation, so we could riff on these great ideas,” he shares. “I think it’s a great product, and I get to support something that’s helpful to people.”
Brody’s return to the Super Bowl ad scene is a significant moment. His last appearance was 15 years ago, marking a full cycle in his career from dramatic leading man to a beloved figure comfortable with self-deprecation. The actor hopes the spot will provide a much-needed laugh during a typically stressful time of year.
“I think viewers will get a great deal of enjoyment from it,” he says, “and I am hopeful it will provide a bit of humor in a stressful time.”
Brody’s TurboTax commercial will air during Super Bowl LX, which will take place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Feb. 8. For the fastest, most insightful analysis of all your favorite entertainment news, stay with onlytrustedinfo.com.
