Before the Super Bowl even began on Sunday evening, viewers expressed anger over an advertisement aired during the broadcast. NBC ran a commercial for the upcoming horror film “Scream 7” shortly after the national anthem and just before the kickoff, sparking outrage among families tuning in to watch the game together.
The timing of the commercial troubled many fans, especially since the Super Bowl is often a family event where children are present. The ad’s frightening content, including a levitating figure and a threatening voice, upset parents and young viewers.
Concerns About Impact on Children and Family Viewing Experience
Many criticized the decision to air a scary, graphic commercial at such an early time during the broadcast. One fan commented,
“Showing a commercial for ‘Scream7′ at 5:30 pm right after the National Anthem and right before the Super Bowl kickoff should absolutely be illegal. So absurd.”
Another voice added,
Seriously, why in the world was a commercial for Scream7 the first one after the anthem? Do they not remember that people watch the game with kids in the room? STUPID!
The distress felt by children was evident in reactions on social media. One viewer said,
Think the NFL just traumatized my 5-year-old for life now with this disgustingly gory Scream 7 commercial. It’s a family day for god’s sake!!! WE WILL NOT BE WATCHING,
highlighting the deep disappointment among families.
Game Outcome Overshadowed by Advertising Controversy
Meanwhile, on the field, the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 29-13 in a game marked by strong defensive plays throughout. Despite the on-field action, much of the conversation centered on NBC’s advertisement choices rather than the game itself.
The controversy raised questions about appropriate advertising content during family-oriented live events and how broadcasters balance promotional opportunities with viewer sensitivities.
Showing a commercial for “Scream 7” at 5:30pm right after the National Anthem and right before the Super Bowl kickoff should absolutely be illegal. So absurd. @motionpictures
— Travis Patterson (@wtravispatt) February 8, 2026
Seriously, why in the world was a commercial for Scream 7 the first one after the anthem? Do they not remember that people watch the game with kids in the room? STUPID!
— ronmayott (@ronmayott) February 8, 2026
https://twitter.com/ahmedhathoutt/status/2020644426239156549
