Tom Brady made an unexpected and somewhat puzzling appearance during FOX’s pregame show ahead of the Kansas City Chiefs vs. San Francisco 49ers game on Sunday. While Brady was in the spotlight as part of his new broadcasting role with FOX, the network’s decision to beam him into the studio as a hologram left fans scratching their heads.
Earlier in the week, Brady had sat down with Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes for an interview, which was shown during the pregame show.
To discuss the interview, FOX decided to take things a step further by digitally inserting Brady into the studio alongside hosts Curt Menefee, Terry Bradshaw, Howie Long, Michael Strahan, and Jimmy Johnson.
Instead of being physically present, Brady was recorded in front of a camera, and his full-body image was superimposed onto a green screen in the studio, making it appear as though he was standing between Strahan and Johnson.
The visual effect, however, didn’t go over smoothly with all viewers. As the segment aired, fans took to social media to express confusion and amusement over the surreal appearance.
Some questioned the necessity of the hologram, wondering why FOX didn’t just opt for a simpler approach, like a standard video call. The digital Brady also appeared taller than Michael Strahan, which didn’t sit well with the former NFL defensive end. Strahan joked about the height discrepancy, adding to the awkwardness of the moment.
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As the segment concluded, Brady’s hologram seemed to vanish, as if he were being beamed up by the Starship Enterprise, which only fueled further online banter. Fans were left wondering if FOX’s decision to go high-tech was more distracting than impressive.
While the network certainly proved it has the ability to push the envelope with technology, many viewers questioned whether the flashy hologram was necessary or just a gimmick.
For FOX, the Brady hologram may have been part of their effort to get the most out of their substantial investment in the retired quarterback, who signed a massive 10-year broadcasting deal worth $375 million.
The network appears to be finding creative ways to integrate Brady into its programming, even if that means holographic appearances reminiscent of Princess Leia’s iconic plea for help in Star Wars.
Ultimately, while Brady’s pregame segment showcased FOX’s technological capabilities, it left many fans debating whether the extra spectacle was worth it.
The segment was a curious experiment, but it remains to be seen if viewers will embrace or reject these futuristic attempts to bring Brady into their living rooms.
