Let Me Check The Calendar: Peyton Tries To Fill His Sunday Schedule In DirecTV Campaign

Former NFLer Peyton Manning is starring in "three commercials alongside Lionel Richie" as part of DirecTV's latest ad campaign for the NFL Sunday Ticket, according to Nicki Jhabvala of the DENVER POST (7/29). In Indianapolis, Jim Ayello noted DirecTV depicts Manning "adrift, not really knowing what to do with his newfound freedom." He "walks around in a robe and slippers accomplishing menial tasks while being serenaded" by Richie, who "sings 'Peyton on Sunday Mornings,' a take on his legendary song 'Easy' (Like Sunday Morning)." Manning in one ad "talks to an older gentleman on a park bench, who encourages Manning to 'work as long as you can,' much to Manning's dismay" (INDYSTAR.com, 7/28). The AP noted Manning in another ad calls his younger brother, Giants QB Eli Manning, "inviting him to come over and watch all the games." Eli replies, "I’m playing." The final spot shows Manning "doing some food shopping, handing the cashier crumpled coupons." He is "checking out at Aisle 18, of course" (AP, 7/28).