For its latest back-to-school campaign, Kids Foot Locker called in the big guns.
New England Patriots star tight end Rob Gronkowski stars in a humorous TV commercial for the retailer called “Grownups.” The spot opens with Gronkowski, affectionately known as “Gronk,” being mobbed by a group of eager young fans outside his team’s training facility. While signing autographs, he compliments the kids’ cool new Nike gear from Kids Foot Locker. He then apologizes for not being able to hang out longer, explaining he has “grownup” things to do.
The scene shifts to Gronkowski at home in his bedroom, doing those important, grownup things — slurping a milkshake, shoveling down pizza and playing video games — surrounded by childhood staples like model trains, a drum set and stacks of comic books. The commercial ends with the football legend hearing the jingly tune of a nearby ice cream truck and rushing from the room.
“It was fun working with Rob on this spot because he has such an affable demeanor. As a hero athlete, he helps highlight the fresh new gear available at Kids Foot Locker for back-to-school,” said Stacy Cunningham, Foot Locker’s EVP of marketing. “The kids had such a blast working with Gronk, as he is so down-to-earth and friendly.”
Gronkowski said shooting the commercial hardly felt like work. “Working with the young actors and Kids Foot Locker was awesome. And being able to kick back and play video games wasn’t bad either,” he said.
It’s been a winning week for the football pro. In addition to starring in the Kids Foot Locker campaign — as well as a new series of Dunkin’ Donuts commercials that have him showing off his singing chops — Gronkowski came one step closer to being a Patriots player for life.
Yesterday, his team cut him a $4 million check from a $10 million option bonus for 2016, ensuring he remains on the roster for the foreseeable future. The Pats still have until the end of the 2015 league year to decide whether to officially exercise that team option, but that is now considered a formality.
Check out Gronk’s star turn here:
