You may have seen a series of Pepsi commercials starring Kyrie Irving of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the role of the elderly Uncle Drew. Looking to build on that character, Pepsi is now looking to take the Uncle Drew character to the next level with a full-featured film. In a Hollywood world focused on expanding cinematic universes like Marvel, DC and even M. Night Shyamalan and seemingly unrelated franchises, it appears Pepsi is looking to do the same with Uncle Drew.
“Pepsi and Kyrie Irving are looking forward to expanding the Uncle Drew universe,” said Lou Arbetter, general manager of Creators League Studios, Pepsi’s new in-house production company.
The Uncle Drew commercials have already established a bit of a cast of characters including Bill Russell, Kevin Love, Nate Robinson, Ray Allen, and more. Could they be used to reprise their roles in this potential film? Odds are pretty good there will be some additional celebrity cameos, whether as themselves or as a fictional character. Maybe Irving can get LeBron James in for a few scenes. LeBron is no stranger to Hollywood, after all.
“I’m really proud of what we’ve been able to build with Pepsi,” Irving said to ESPN.com. “And even more excited for what’s ahead.”
Has there ever been a commercial character to receive a full feature film deal before? Tony the Tiger must be ticked. Could we see Pepsi find a cameo appearance for any previous stars of Pepsi commercials?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DnKOc6FISU
[ESPN]
