On Super Bowl night, millions of people gather for more than just a championship game. Living rooms turn into shared theaters, conversations pause, and for a brief moment, a 60-second story can unite viewers across generations. In 2026, Budweiser once again captured that rare moment with its Super Bowl commercial titled “American Icons.” Featuring a baby Clydesdale horse and a young bald eagle growing up side by side, the ad quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the evening.
At first glance, it feels like a simple, heartwarming story about friendship and growth. Look closer, and it becomes something more layered, blending cultural symbolism, brand legacy, and subtle emotional cues that invite both nostalgia and curiosity. This article explores the commercial through two lenses: the myth and cultural significance behind its imagery, and the scientific and psychological perspectives that help explain why it resonated so deeply with audiences.
A Legacy of Storytelling in Super Bowl Advertising
Budweiser has long been known for its emotionally driven Super Bowl commercials. For decades, the brand has leaned on storytelling rather than spectacle, using familiar images to spark feelings of comfort, pride, and continuity. The 2026 commercial continued this tradition, arriving at a moment rich with milestones.
The ad marked Budweiser’s 150th anniversary while also nodding toward America’s upcoming 250th birthday. This dual celebration gave the story additional weight, positioning it not just as an advertisement, but as a reflective moment on shared history and collective identity.
Within hours of its release on Budweiser’s official YouTube channel, the 60-second spot drew millions of views. Many viewers described feeling emotional, replaying it multiple times, and sharing it with friends and family. While such reactions are subjective, the scale of engagement suggests the commercial struck a chord far beyond traditional brand promotion.
The Clydesdale as a Cultural Symbol
The Budweiser Clydesdale is more than a marketing mascot. Introduced in the early 1930s, these horses have come to represent craftsmanship, perseverance, and tradition. Their calm strength and steady presence have been associated with reliability and continuity, qualities that resonate strongly during large national events like the Super Bowl.
In “American Icons,” the choice to feature a baby Clydesdale rather than an adult subtly shifts the narrative. Instead of focusing on established power, the ad emphasizes growth and potential. From a cultural perspective, this can be seen as a reflection of generational continuity, suggesting that values are passed down and renewed over time.
While interpretations vary, the symbolism remains approachable. The horse is not presented as a heroic figure in a dramatic sense, but as a gentle companion learning about the world. This softness helps the message remain inclusive and family-friendly, aligning with broad audience expectations.
The Bald Eagle in Myth and Meaning
The bald eagle is one of the most recognizable symbols in American culture. Historically associated with freedom, independence, and national identity, it often appears in formal contexts such as seals, monuments, and official emblems.
In Budweiser’s commercial, however, the eagle appears not as a grand symbol, but as a young, curious presence. This creative choice humanizes the image, making it more relatable and less formal. Instead of presenting national identity as something distant or rigid, the ad frames it as something that grows, learns, and adapts.
From a mythological standpoint, animals have long been used to represent ideals in storytelling. While there is no claim that the ad intends to redefine national symbolism, the pairing of a young eagle with a young horse invites viewers to reflect on shared beginnings and mutual growth. Any deeper meaning remains speculative, but the emotional accessibility is undeniable.
Why Animal Stories Connect So Strongly
From a scientific and psychological perspective, stories involving animals often elicit strong emotional responses. Research in media psychology suggests that viewers tend to project human emotions onto animals, a process known as anthropomorphism. This allows audiences to connect quickly without the barriers that sometimes accompany human characters, such as social differences or preconceived opinions.
In the case of “American Icons,” the absence of dialogue further enhances this effect. Without words, the story relies on visuals, music, and pacing, allowing viewers to interpret emotions in a personal way. This open-ended approach encourages individual reflection, which can increase memorability and shareability.
Additionally, the theme of growth resonates universally. Watching young characters develop over time taps into fundamental human experiences related to learning, change, and hope. These themes are not tied to any single culture or age group, making the message broadly appealing.
The Role of Nostalgia in Modern Advertising
Nostalgia is a powerful tool in storytelling, particularly during events that already carry emotional weight. The Super Bowl is not just a sporting event; it is a cultural ritual for many families. Budweiser’s commercial subtly leans into this context by using familiar imagery and a gentle narrative pace.
Scientific studies on memory suggest that nostalgia can create a sense of comfort and belonging, especially during moments of collective attention. By revisiting iconic symbols like the Clydesdale and the bald eagle, the ad bridges past and present, reminding viewers of earlier Budweiser commercials while introducing something new.
This balance between familiarity and freshness may help explain why the commercial appealed to both long-time fans of the brand and younger viewers encountering these symbols for the first time.
Growth, Friendship, and Shared Journeys
At its core, “American Icons” is a story about companionship. The baby Clydesdale and the baby eagle grow up together, suggesting that progress is often shaped through shared experiences. While the ad does not explicitly define the nature of their bond, it invites viewers to reflect on their own relationships and journeys.
From a cultural standpoint, friendship stories have long been used to convey values such as cooperation and mutual respect. In this case, the pairing of two distinct animals reinforces the idea that connection can exist across differences. This interpretation remains symbolic rather than literal, allowing audiences to draw their own conclusions without feeling directed.
Such open storytelling aligns well with modern advertising trends, which often prioritize emotional resonance over explicit messaging.
Viewer Reactions and Cultural Impact
Within hours of its release, the commercial sparked widespread discussion on social media platforms. Many viewers praised its emotional tone and visual storytelling, while others highlighted its use of classic American imagery. While individual reactions vary, the volume of engagement indicates that the ad succeeded in becoming part of the broader Super Bowl conversation.
From a marketing perspective, this level of attention is significant. Super Bowl commercials are among the most competitive advertising spaces, and standing out requires more than high production value. It requires a story that people want to talk about, share, and revisit.
Although it is too early to measure long-term cultural impact, the initial response suggests that “American Icons” has secured a place among Budweiser’s most memorable Super Bowl moments.
Myth Versus Meaning: Interpreting the Story Carefully
It is important to approach interpretations of the commercial with balance. While some viewers may see deeper national or cultural messages, others may simply enjoy it as a well-crafted story featuring animals. Both perspectives are valid.
There is no need to assume hidden agendas or extraordinary claims behind the imagery. The ad works precisely because it allows space for personal interpretation without demanding a specific conclusion. This restraint helps maintain broad appeal and avoids controversy, which is especially important for a family-oriented event like the Super Bowl.
By framing its story as a gentle reflection rather than a bold statement, Budweiser ensures that the message remains accessible and respectful to diverse audiences.
Budweiser’s Brand Identity and Emotional Continuity
For 150 years, Budweiser has positioned itself as a brand tied to shared moments and collective experiences. The tagline associated with the commercial, “For 150 Years, This Bud’s For You,” reinforces this identity.
Rather than focusing on product features, the ad emphasizes connection, continuity, and growth. This approach aligns with long-standing branding strategies that prioritize emotional storytelling over direct promotion. In doing so, Budweiser reinforces its place not just as a beverage brand, but as a familiar presence in cultural milestones.
From a strategic standpoint, this consistency helps build trust and recognition over time, especially during high-visibility events.
A Reflection on Human Curiosity and Connection
Ultimately, the success of “American Icons” lies in its ability to tap into human curiosity. Viewers are drawn to stories that feel both simple and meaningful, stories that invite reflection without insisting on interpretation. The pairing of a young Clydesdale and a young eagle offers a canvas onto which audiences can project their own experiences and values.
In a world filled with fast-paced content and constant noise, a quiet, visually driven story can feel refreshing. It reminds us that curiosity often begins with observation, and connection often grows from shared moments. Whether viewers see the commercial as a celebration of tradition, a symbol of growth, or simply a touching animal story, its impact comes from that shared space of interpretation.
As long as people remain curious about the stories behind familiar symbols, advertisements like this will continue to resonate far beyond their brief airtime.
Sources
Budweiser Official YouTube Channel, “Budweiser | Super Bowl LX Commercial ‘American Icons’”
en.newsner.com, Fredrik Falk, “Budweiser’s ‘American Icon’ Super Bowl commercial is truly a must-see”
American Psychological Association, research on emotional engagement and storytelling
Smithsonian National Museum of American History, cultural symbolism of the bald eagle
Anheuser-Busch Company History and Brand Archives