Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 10, 2024 9:14 pm GMT
Dani Rojas is back in action, but this time, he’s switching gears from the soccer field to the world of American football in a new commercial campaign for State Farm. Cristo Fernández reprises his role as the beloved character from the acclaimed series “Ted Lasso,” collaborating alongside Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes and the iconic Jake from State Farm in a campaign dubbed “Bundle Is Life.” This campaign, aimed at promoting State Farm’s home and auto insurance packages, highlights Rojas’s unique passion for both football and fútbol.
Welcoming Rojas Back to the Screen
Cristo Fernández has always cherished the opportunity to return to his role as Dani Rojas. He expressed his excitement about stepping back into the character, noting the joy he derives from Rojas’s infectious enthusiasm. “It was a dream to be back and play Dani. I ‘believe,’ right?” said Fernández, referencing one of Rojas’s famous catchphrases that has resonated with fans. The actor acknowledged the significant impact that “Ted Lasso” has had on its audience, noting, “It has meant so much to me to see reactions from the fans, how they express themselves about Ted Lasso, about Dani Rojas, and that, to me, is the key.”
Challenges on Set
Filming the State Farm commercial presented some interesting challenges for Fernández, especially pertaining to the unique hybrid of football and soccer elements central to the campaign. The actor humorously recalled his initial confusion about the “hybrid pigskin/soccer ball” featured in the commercial. “When they first gave me the ball, I was like, ‘How are we going to do this?’ But we did it, and it’s all in the commercial, and I’m proud of having made it work,” he explained. This blend of sports was not just a creative concept; it showcased the unique merging of cultures that the campaign represents.
The production was an enjoyable experience for Fernández, who praised the collaborative environment. “Everyone was really cool. The director, Jake Szymanski, was amazing, and all the crew and I had an amazing time. So I’m very grateful to State Farm and everyone that will watch this commercial,” he added.
Meeting Sports Legends
Fernández also expressed his enthusiasm about working with Mahomes, whom he regards as an “American football legend.” The actor shared a positive impression of the interaction, stating, “Patrick Mahomes was super nice. And I also love Jake from all the [State Farm] commercials. He’s a super nice guy, Kevin the actor. And I think we just had a great time.” This collaboration goes beyond mere promotion; it highlights the confluence of athleticism and entertainment, which is increasingly important in today’s media landscape.
A Passion for Sports
As a former professional athlete turned actor, Fernández reflects on the influence of sports in shaping his life. He spoke about how his journey in sports has provided him with discipline, hard work, and opportunities that have been invaluable in his career. “I will always be an athlete in my heart. I love sports. And I said it before: I think sports have made me who I am and have given me the opportunities I’ve gotten in my life,” he stated.
His love for sports has also provided him with opportunities to meet numerous sports figures, enhancing his experiences. “With ‘Ted Lasso,’ I would have never imagined that football was going to come back in my life the way it did and help me make dreams come true,” he noted, emphasizing how the series has reconnected him with his roots.
Bridging Cultures through Sports
Fernández’s personal sports journey includes attending his first NFL game in London, which he described as an unforgettable experience. “My first American football game ever was in London. All of us from Ted Lasso were in London, and we went,” he recounted. Although he has attended NFL games in the United States, he highlighted the lack of American football events in Mexico, expressing hope that the NFL would bring games to his home city of Guadalajara, which boasts a suitable stadium.
In his view, the popularity of American football is growing worldwide, reflecting a broader trend of sports cultural exchange. “I think the NFL has grown all around the world, and I think the passion for the sport is growing,” he added, reinforcing the idea that sports can serve as a bridge to connect diverse cultures.
Sharing Culinary Secrets
The conversation with Fernández wouldn’t be complete without touching on his culinary passions. He humorously alluded to his love for food, mentioning how much he enjoys eating. He reflected on shared experiences with his “Ted Lasso” castmates, particularly regarding food, highlighting how it can bring people together. Interestingly, he mentioned a secret ingredient in his guacamole that gained rave reviews from his co-star Jason Sudeikis.
The intersection of sports, entertainment, and culinary arts encapsulates Fernández’s multifaceted interests, demonstrating how these elements enhance both his personal and professional life.
Looking Ahead
As discussions swirl around the anticipated fourth season of “Ted Lasso,” Fernández’s potential involvement remains a topic of speculation. Fans are eager to see how his character will evolve and what new dynamics will unfold. While details are yet to be released, the excitement surrounding the series continues to grow.
Right now, the State Farm campaign shows how much people love Dani Rojas and the fun world of “Ted Lasso.” This mix of sports and entertainment, along with strong friendships, makes Fernández a favorite character both on TV and in real life.
