ESPN will produce a Star Wars-themed animated alternate broadcast for Super Bowl LXI, utilizing Sony’s Beyond Sports technology to map real-time NFL player-tracking data into an animated environment. This production marks the first time the network has applied its Funday Football format to a Super Bowl, streaming globally on Disney+ and the ESPN App.
This production represents a significant technical scaling of real-time data visualization, moving from regular-season experiments to the industry's most-watched annual event. By leveraging Sony’s Beyond Sports and Hawk-Eye systems, Disney is demonstrating how proprietary IP can be used to capture younger demographics who may not engage with traditional linear sports feeds. The global reach across 155 markets also serves as a stress test for Disney+ infrastructure handling high-concurrency, data-heavy animated streams. Watch for the specific viewer retention metrics compared to the traditional ABC/ESPN broadcast to determine if these high-cost alternate feeds become a permanent fixture for major championship events.
ESPN is launching a Star Wars-themed alternate broadcast for Super Bowl LXI, utilizing Sony’s Beyond Sports technology to map live NFL player data into an animated environment. This production, streaming on Disney+ and the ESPN App, marks the first time the Funday Football format has been applied to the Super Bowl.
The broadcast uses Sony’s Beyond Sports technology, which integrates NFL Next Gen Stats and Hawk-Eye Innovations data to recreate live plays in an animated environment in real time.
The broadcast will be available globally across 155 markets, including Latin America, Europe, and Asia, via Disney+ and the ESPN App.
Yes, the production features Lucasfilm characters, including C-3PO, who is voiced by Anthony Daniels, and animated Darth Vader interviews.
Promotional 'Hyperspace Highlights' and animated Darth Vader interviews are scheduled to begin airing on SC+ starting October 20.
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