ESPN will stream an animated Star Wars version of Super Bowl LXI. The latest and final alt-cast for the network’s Super Bowl debut airs February 14, 2027, on Disney+, the ESPN App, Disney Channel and Disney XD.
What We Know: Star Wars Funday Football will recreate every play of Super Bowl LXI in real time, turning players into animated avatars. Additionally, Star Wars characters will sub in during key moments, and Anthony Daniels returns to voice C-3PO. Meanwhile, it is one of four alternate presentations ESPN and the NFL have announced so far. The others are Peyton and Eli on ESPN2, Pat McAfee’s Field Pass on ESPNU and NFL Network’s Playbook.
What’s At Stake: With ESPN broadcasting the first Super Bowl in network history, the network’s owner, The Waly Disney Company, is going all in. For the first time, there will be five different options to watch the biggest sporting event in America. The traditional broadcast featuring Joe Buck and Troy Aikman will air on ESPN/ABC. The ManningCast and Field Pass alt-casts will air on ESPN2 and ESPNU respectively. In addition to Star Ward Funday Football, ESPN will also present a Playbook alt-cast on the NFL Network.
What Remains Unclear: However, several key details are still under wraps. For instance, ESPN has not named the commentators who will call the animated broadcast. Likewise, ESPN has yet to reveal the visual settings or the full lineup of Star Wars characters. The network plans to share those details as Super Bowl LXI approaches. The biggest unknown is how will all these different presentations segment the viewing audience which traditionally has only one destination to watch.
What It Means: Ultimately, ESPN is using its first-ever Super Bowl to put its alt-cast playbook on full display. The animated game airs alongside the traditional Joe Buck and Troy Aikman call from SoFi Stadium. Moreover, the broadcast reaches more than 155 markets worldwide, either live or on demand. Finally, the timing lines up with Star Wars’ 50th anniversary and a restored theatrical re-release five days later. Whether or not all these added ways to consume the game drive additional audience is yet to be seen.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
