Super Bowl commercials have become an event in themselves, often more memorable than the game itself. Among the many ads that have aired over the years, one stands out as truly iconic—Ali Landry’s Doritos commercial from Super Bowl XXXII in 1998. With its mix of action, humor, and charm, this 30-second spot transformed Landry from a beauty queen into a pop culture phenomenon.

In this article, we’ll dive into what made this commercial legendary, how it impacted Landry’s career, and why it remains one of the most celebrated Super Bowl ads of all time.

The Birth of an Iconic Super Bowl Commercial

Every year, brands spend millions of dollars to create eye-catching and memorable Super Bowl ads, hoping to capture the attention of millions of viewers. In 1998, Doritos took a chance on Ali Landry, a former Miss USA, to headline their latest campaign—and it paid off in a way no one expected.

The commercial was simple yet effective. Set in a laundromat, Landry played a confident and playful woman casually enjoying a bag of Doritos. As she took each bite, she performed gravity-defying flips and acrobatic stunts, catching chips in mid-air with impressive precision. The high-energy execution, combined with Landry’s undeniable screen presence, made the ad an instant hit.

Why the Ad Became an Instant Classic

Not every Super Bowl commercial stands the test of time, but Landry’s Doritos ad had a unique combination of elements that made it unforgettable.

• Action-Packed and Fun – Unlike most snack commercials, this one featured dynamic stunts and an engaging visual appeal that kept audiences hooked.
• Ali Landry’s Star Power – Her mix of beauty, charisma, and athleticism made her instantly likable and magnetic on screen.
• Rewatchability – The ad had an almost addictive quality, prompting fans to talk about it, rewatch it, and spread its popularity far beyond the Super Bowl.

Doritos’ creative gamble paid off—people weren’t just talking about the chips; they were talking about her.

The Impact on Ali Landry’s Career

Before the Doritos commercial, Ali Landry was best known as Miss USA 1996. While pageant winners often struggle to break into mainstream entertainment, this ad gave Landry the breakthrough she needed.

Following the Super Bowl, Landry’s career skyrocketed:

• She landed guest roles in popular TV series such as Felicity, Eve, and Two Guys and a Girl.
• She became a television host, working with networks like E! and the TV Guide Channel.
• She transitioned into film, starring in movies like Bella and Repli-Kate.

The Doritos ad wasn’t just another commercial—it became a launchpad that turned Landry into a recognized Hollywood personality.

Why the Ad Still Resonates Today

More than two decades after its debut, Ali Landry’s Doritos commercial remains one of the most talked-about Super Bowl ads of all time. But why does it still hold such cultural weight?

• It Defined a Generation of Super Bowl Ads – The commercial set the standard for fun, energetic, and visually engaging snack advertisements.
• Landry’s Lasting Appeal – Her performance in the ad was so memorable that she’s still associated with Doritos even years later.
• The Power of Nostalgia – Many fans who watched the ad in 1998 still recall the excitement and fun it brought, making it a nostalgic favorite.

How the Doritos Ad Changed Super Bowl Advertising

After the success of Landry’s commercial, brands took note. It proved that an ad didn’t need a complex storyline—sometimes, simplicity, energy, and a charismatic lead were all it took to create an unforgettable moment.

Since then, advertisers have strived to replicate the magic of Landry’s Doritos commercial, incorporating:

• Action-driven storytelling – Many brands now opt for fast-paced, high-energy commercials to grab attention.
• Star power – The success of the ad showed that having the right personality in a commercial can be just as important as the product itself.
• Memorable visuals – The laundromat setting, the acrobatics, and the crisp crunch of a Dorito—all were carefully chosen elements that made the ad stick in people’s minds.

Ali Landry’s Legacy as a Super Bowl Icon

Ali Landry’s performance in the Doritos commercial proved that a well-executed ad could make a lasting impact on pop culture. Even years later, she’s often recognized as “the Doritos Girl,” a title that speaks volumes about how influential that moment was in advertising history.

She remains a beloved figure in entertainment, balancing a career in hosting, acting, and entrepreneurship. And while she has taken on many roles over the years, her iconic Doritos moment remains one of the defining highlights of her career.

Conclusion: A 30-Second Spot That Became Legendary

Ali Landry’s Doritos Super Bowl commercial wasn’t just an ad—it was a cultural moment. With its mix of action, humor, and star power, it set the bar for what a great commercial should be.

More than two decades later, it’s still talked about, proving that sometimes, all it takes is the right person, the right concept, and the right crunch to make advertising history.