Nashville’s own Jason “Jelly Roll” DeFord made his commercial debut in a laugh-out-loud Super Bowl LVIII ad that surprised and entertained millions of viewers. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, the 39-year-old artist expressed his excitement about the opportunity, especially since it involved one of his most-used apps and aired during one of the biggest events on television.
The commercial, fully released on Tuesday, featured Jelly Roll in a humorous situation where he wakes up to find his face unexpectedly covered in tattoos. His exaggerated reaction, “What happened to my face?” not only garnered laughs but also cleverly integrated the message that with Uber Eats, you can have whatever you need to be delivered right to your door—even if it’s something you’ve forgotten.
But the commercial wasn’t just about Jelly Roll’s comedic chops; it also featured a lineup of celebrities in equally amusing scenarios, playing on their iconic roles and personas. Jennifer Aniston pokes fun at her ‘Friends’ connection with David Schwimmer, Victoria Beckham humorously forgets her Spice Girl past, and Usher hilariously overlooks his role as the Super Bowl halftime show performer.
Beyond the commercial’s entertainment factor, 2024 has been a significant year for Jelly Roll in more profound ways. Known for his transformation from a rapper to a country music sensation, he took his influence to Capitol Hill. Jelly Roll provided heartfelt testimony before Congress, advocating for anti-fentanyl legislation. His candid admission, “I was part of the problem. I am here now, standing as a man that wants to be a part of the solution,” resonated deeply during the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs session.
The year also brought Jelly Roll Grammy nominations for Best Country Duo/Group Performance with Lainey Wilson for “Save Me” and Best New Artist. Although he didn’t secure a Grammy, the nods are a testament to his rising status in the music industry.
Jelly Roll’s Super Bowl commercial, congressional testimony, and Grammy nominations mark an extraordinary chapter in his career. As he pivots from his past and looks to the future, Jelly Roll is establishing himself not just as an artist, but as a force for change, proving that his journey is as much about personal growth as it is about his music.