LeBron James "stars in a new Beats by Dre campaign which like most things these days regarding the Cavaliers star, centers around his return to Cleveland and the next chapter in his career and his life," according to Nina Mandell of USA TODAY. The ad is "made a bit dramatic and heartwarming with Hozier’s 'Take Me To Church' playing." In an additional campaign spot, an "extended cut of the ad shows all of the welcome home signs, kids waving and the theme: Made in Akron, reestablished in 2014" (
USATODAY.com, 10/19). In Cleveland, Joe Vardon reported the initial ad "is narrated by James' mother." The ad opens with Gloria James' voiceover as footage shot from a moving vehicle "depicts various Akron scenes where James grew up." Gloria James, in the ad says, "Akron is home. This is the city that raised you. I'm so proud of you. Welcome home, son." Vardon noted she says this "as the famous Akron drive-in Swenson's appear." A 30-second version of the ad yesterday aired on WOIO-CBS in Cleveland during halftime of Browns-Jaguars (
CLEVELAND.com, 10/19). See the full endorsement portfolio for
LeBron James at Resource Guide LIVE.
