News

New Papa John's campaign has Peyton 'manning' the kitchen

August 22, 2016

Papa John’s is premiering an ad campaign tonight featuring legendary quarterback Peyton Manning in his new role as an NFL spectator hosting his own game-day party. The integrated campaign also features the reigning NFL defensive player of the year, J.J. Watt of the Houston Texans, according to a news release.

"We're excited to celebrate the start of football season alongside Peyton as he experiences the game as a fan for the first time," said the pizza chain's founder, "Papa John" Schnatter. "Our All-Pro NFL lineup of Peyton and J.J. continues to make for a better team, as they both share our passion to deliver quality experiences to NFL fans."

The ad tonight runs on ESPN, NFL Network, Spike, FX and Comedy Central and features Manning dressed for party-catering instead of play-calling. J.J. Watt, who joined the Papa John's team last year, will  be featured in a cameo appearance in the ad — and on his nationally distributed NFL-themed pizza box. 

"It's always great to be able to partner up with Peyton and Papa John for these commercials and it is an honor to be featured on the new pizza box across the entire nation," said Watt in a news release about the campaign.

Papa John's also is launching an LTO to accompany the seasonal campaign. The offer includes two medium two-topping pizzas for $6.99 each, plus the chain's new cinnamon pull-aparts dessert for another $6.

The campaign ties into the chain’s online ordering feature with an offer of an extra 25 bonus points to Papa Rewards customers who spend $15 or more on the NFL offer between Aug. 29 and Sept. 11. Members can redeem their points on a free pizza with up to three toppings (or a few other options) by using a special promo code on orders from Aug. 30 through Sept. 25.