In what many are calling the most emotional Super Bowl commercial in recent memory, Budweiser delivered a cinematic masterpiece during Super Bowl LX that transcended mere advertising. Titled “American Icons,” the 60-second spot weaves a poignant story of unbreakable friendship between two of America’s most enduring symbols: a young Clydesdale foal and a baby bald eagle.
The ad opens in a snowy, rugged American landscape, where a curious Clydesdale foal ventures out from the barn and encounters a tiny, vulnerable bald eagle chick. Initially hesitant, the foal approaches, but a fierce storm rolls in, forcing the two to seek shelter together. In a tender moment, the horse protects the bird, forging a bond that defies the odds. As Lynyrd Skynyrd’s iconic rock anthem “Free Bird” begins to play softly, viewers watch the pair grow side by side through harsh winters, raging blizzards, and challenging terrain.
The music swells dramatically as the Clydesdale matures into a powerful, majestic horse, its hooves pounding the earth with confidence. The eagle, too, strengthens, its wings spreading wider with each passing season. The narrative builds to an unforgettable climax: as “Free Bird” hits its soaring guitar solo, the adult bald eagle launches from the Clydesdale’s back in a breathtaking display of freedom and triumph. The horse leaps over obstacles with grace, the eagle soaring overhead in perfect harmony—a visual metaphor for resilience, loyalty, and the American spirit.
This wasn’t just clever marketing; it was a deliberate celebration of Budweiser’s 150th anniversary and America’s upcoming 250th birthday. The brand has long used its Clydesdales as icons of heritage, appearing in Super Bowl ads for decades. Here, pairing them with the bald eagle—America’s national bird—amplified the patriotic theme. The eagle featured, named Lincoln, is a real, non-releasable bird from the American Eagle Foundation, trained for such majestic flights, adding authenticity to the emotional payoff.
Reactions poured in immediately after the airing. Viewers reported chills, tears, and goosebumps, with many praising the ad for its heartfelt storytelling and flawless execution. Social media lit up with comments like “This gave me chills” and “Budweiser just won the Super Bowl of ads.” The spot’s blend of nostalgia, animal companionship, and uplifting music struck a chord, especially in a time when people crave feel-good moments.
While some critics noted its heavy Americana imagery bordered on overt patriotism, the overwhelming response was positive. It quickly rose to the top of viewer polls, earning widespread acclaim as one of the most moving commercials of the big game. Budweiser proved once again why its Clydesdale traditions endure: when you combine stunning visuals, a powerful soundtrack, and genuine emotion, you don’t just sell beer—you create a shared cultural experience that lingers long after the final whistle.
In an era of flashy celebrity cameos and high-concept humor, “American Icons” reminded everyone that sometimes, the simplest stories—friendship, growth, and freedom—are the most powerful. Budweiser didn’t just air an ad; it delivered a moment that united viewers in awe and emotion.
