Adidas’ Unveils New “Superstar, The Original” Campaign Celebrating Cultural Icons
Adidas’ new “Superstar, The Original” campaign brings together cultural icons like Missy Elliott, JENNIE, and Samuel L. Jackson to celebrate the sneaker’s influence on global street culture
After the revival of the Samba, Adidas is spotlighting another one of its iconic silhouettes: the Superstar. Launching today, the “Superstar, The Original” campaign celebrates the proven longevity of the sneaker.
Images courtesy of Adidas
Originally designed for basketball in the 1970s, the Superstar has become much more than athletic wear. It was quickly adopted into streetwear and embraced by generations of artists, skaters, and musicians. This concept often happens to footwear—shoes that were made for a singular purpose (i.e., Timberlands and Salomons, for working and hiking) become pillars of subculture—and the Superstar led the charge.
The film, directed by renowned filmmaker Thibaut Grevet, features a stark black-and-white visual style that highlights the stripped-down elegance of the original Superstar colorway. The campaign’s hero film, “Clocks,” brings together a diverse, multigenerational cast of cultural innovators.
Images courtesy of Adidas
Narrated by legendary actor Samuel L. Jackson, the film also stars music legend Missy Elliott, skateboarding pioneer Mark Gonzales, NBA rising star Anthony Edwards, rapper GloRilla, musician Teezo Touchdown, K-pop icon JENNIE, and model-actress Gabbriette. Together, they embody the campaign’s ethos: defining culture rather than following it.
“The Superstar has always been more than just a sneaker—it’s a symbol of originality and a spark for cultural change,” said Annie Barrett, Vice President of Marketing at Adidas Originals. “From street corners to global stages, it’s been worn by those who don’t wait for permission to lead.”
Images courtesy of Adidas
The campaign unfolds in two chapters. The first, titled “Pyramids,” acts as a teaser and features Jackson drawing a parallel between the sneaker’s legacy and ancient monuments. The second, “Clocks,” unites all seven icons in a powerful statement on time, culture, and authenticity.
Although the campaign honors the Superstar, the shoe is getting a revamp, with added tongue and collar padding. Alongside the shoes, Adidas is reintroducing the iconic Firebird Tracksuit. Both pieces channel the energy of the late ’90s and remain staples today.
The campaign’s message is clear: Superstars don’t follow trends—they create them.
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