NBC is gearing up for an exciting coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics, and among the star-studded lineup is none other than Alex Cooper, the host and executive producer of the popular podcast “Call Her Daddy.” Cooper joined NBC’s broadcast team in April 2024, bringing a unique flair to the Olympic experience.
Unlike other celebrities like Peyton Manning, Kelly Clarkson, and Snoop Dogg, Cooper’s role is distinct. She will host live interactive watch parties titled “Watch with Alex Cooper,” which will be available for streaming on Peacock. This innovative format aims to engage viewers in a more interactive way, allowing them to watch the Olympics alongside Cooper and her guests while participating in real-time discussions.
Cooper expressed her excitement about this opportunity, stating, “As a former athlete, the chance to cheer on the world’s greatest athletes at the Olympics is beyond thrilling.” She emphasized her enthusiasm for partnering with NBC and Peacock to present this interactive watch-party format for the first time from the Olympics. The inaugural episode of “Watch with Alex Cooper” is set to air on July 28, 2024, coinciding with the U.S. women’s soccer team’s match against Germany. A second episode will follow on August 1, during the women’s gymnastics all-around event.
Molly Solomon, the executive producer and president of NBC’s Olympic productions, shared her excitement about Cooper’s involvement. She noted that Cooper has cultivated a dedicated fan base through her fun and original content, making her an ideal host for this interactive viewing experience. Solomon highlighted the goal of bringing viewers closer to the action and creating a lively atmosphere as they watch Team USA compete.
Cooper’s background as a former athlete adds another layer to her role. She played for the Boston University women’s soccer team from 2013 to 2015, where she contributed to the team’s success by winning the Patriot League title each season. Her experience as a midfielder, along with her passion for sports, positions her well to connect with audiences during the Olympics.
In addition to her podcasting success, Cooper has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. Her podcast, which began in 2018, has garnered millions of listeners and has evolved from a focus on sex advice to featuring high-profile interviews with celebrities. This shift has allowed her to become a prominent voice in pop culture, making her a fitting addition to NBC’s Olympic coverage.
Cooper’s involvement in the Olympics reflects NBC’s strategy to broaden its audience, particularly among younger viewers. By integrating pop culture elements into their coverage, NBC aims to create a more engaging experience for fans. Solomon noted that the goal is to maintain the competition’s core while also bringing in fresh perspectives and enthusiasm.
The “Watch with Alex Cooper” format is designed to be a companion to the Olympic events, offering a unique viewing experience that combines social media reactions and guest appearances. This approach is reminiscent of the popular “Manningcast” format, which has successfully engaged audiences during NFL broadcasts.
Cooper’s commitment to making the Olympics accessible and enjoyable for Gen-Z audiences is evident. She has expressed her desire to create a less intimidating environment for young women to engage with the Games. Her recent interview with Simone Biles, where they discussed the gymnast’s experiences during the Tokyo Olympics, exemplifies her dedication to fostering meaningful conversations around sports.
As the Olympics approach, Cooper’s role is set to bring a fresh and dynamic perspective to NBC’s coverage. Her ability to connect with audiences, combined with her background in sports and entertainment, positions her as a key player in making the 2024 Paris Olympics an unforgettable experience for viewers.
With the Olympics being a global event, NBC’s coverage will encompass a wide range of sports and competitions. The network plans to utilize its full resources, including Peacock, to provide comprehensive coverage of all 329 medal events. Viewers can expect a variety of programming options, including daytime and primetime broadcasts, as well as live streaming on multiple platforms.
The opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics is anticipated to be a groundbreaking event, with organizers opting for a unique setting along the Seine River. This innovative approach is expected to create a visually stunning experience for both attendees and viewers at home. NBC’s coverage will include extensive behind-the-scenes access, interviews with athletes, and highlights from the day’s events.
As the countdown to the Olympics continues, Cooper’s presence on NBC’s broadcast team is generating excitement among fans. Her ability to blend sports, entertainment, and interactive engagement is set to elevate the viewing experience, making the 2024 Paris Olympics a memorable event for audiences around the world.
In conclusion, Alex Cooper’s role in the 2024 Paris Olympics represents a new era of sports broadcasting. By combining her passion for sports with her expertise in entertainment, she is poised to create an engaging and interactive experience for viewers. As NBC aims to connect with younger audiences, Cooper’s unique approach will undoubtedly contribute to the excitement and energy surrounding the Games.
Source: NBC News, USA Today, Variety
