Big Game Star Pay: How Much Celebs Earned for the 2026 Super Bowl Ads
For the biggest televised event of the year, brands pay a fortune for a chance to show their products to millions. The 2026 Super Bowl cost between $7 million and $10 million for a single commercial spot, but the real question is how much the famous faces in those spots earned.
Celebrity Pay Scale
- Typical A‑list star: $3 million – $5 million
- Top talent (script, scale, creative control): up to $10 million
Industry experts note that contracts vary wildly, with some stars earning significantly more or less depending on the role.
Impact of Rising Media Costs
- Almost all performers earned < $5 million this year.
- Most landed in the $1 million – $3 million band.
- Only a few outliers broke through that ceiling.
Smaller Roles, Bigger Strategy
| Role | Duration | Fee Range |
|---|---|---|
| Cameo (1–2 days) | 1–2 days | $50 000 – $200 000 |
| A‑list brief appearance | 1–2 days | $500 000 – $900 000 |
Brands are turning to these smaller roles to keep budgets in check while still leveraging star power.
Director Costs
- Day rate: $30 000 – $50 000
- Hiring a big name often brings a trusted crew (cinematographers, stylists, casting directors), adding to the cost.
- Production costs: $900 000 – $4 million, depending on days and scope.
Bottom Line
Even the most expensive Super Bowl ads are carefully budgeted. Brands weigh star power against production costs, and a famous name does not automatically guarantee a higher rate simply because the ad will air during the game.
Overall Insight:
The 2026 Super Bowl highlighted how advertising budgets are balanced with talent fees, creative ambition, and audience reach.
