Jon Bon Jovi vs. Ben Stiller: Which Throwback Spot Rocked Best?

State Farm and Instacart cranked it up to 10.5 in SB60

Let’s get one thing clear: When Jon Bon Jovi rolls up in a convertible with Jake From State Farm by his side, that’s the very definition of rock ‘n’ roll. Right? Not really.

Regardless, the insurer spoofed Bon Jovi’s ’80s mega-classic “Livin’ on a Prayer” in a Super Bowl commercial. Keegan-Michael Key, Danny McBride, Hailee Steinfeld and Katseye keep the beat, while Jon made a highway cameo.

Dig this extended cut:

“I feel like these commercials are sort of a part of American pop culture and I enjoy them,” Bon Jovi told People. “They’re just goofy, fun, pop culture and it all ties into the Super Bowl, I thought, why not? It’d be great.” The Marketing Arm led creative development.

Meanwhile, Ben Stiller and Benson Boone—clad in weird green attire like long-lost Spiders From Mars—crashed around a stage for Instacart, supported by dancers dressed as fruits and veggies.

Also an extended-cut:

“They sent this concept over that I thought was really funny and could be really ridiculous, and so out-there and absurd but very specific in terms of tone and style,” Stiller told EW. “It’s as if you were tuning into a show or commercial from another time.”

“So that’s what excited me about it and of course, how it developed with the creative team. Another huge thing was being able to do something with Benson and Spike, for sure.”

He’s speaking of director Spike Jonze, who lensed the ad, his first Super Bowl assignment in more than 20 years. Local Produce, BBDO and McCann collaborated on the campaign.

Amusing approach. Chill pulsating track. A cray all-around vibe.

But nothing beats JBJ with feathered locks and shades. Even Jake looked hip. Almost.

Music and nostalgia usually score, especially on the Super Bowl. Here, casting a beloved frontman in his first Big Game spot intensified the cool and amped-up the message.