What football player is in the Gillette commercial?
Discover which gridiron star Gillette featured to convey strength and character
(By Carmichael Phillip)
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Gillette’s ad campaigns have increasingly focused on redefining modern masculinity, often through showcasing athletes who embody resilience, integrity, and leadership. Among those featured, Shaquem Griffin, a linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks, stands out as one of the most widely recognized football players in Gillette’s portfolio of commercials. In the 2018 spot titled “Your Best Never Comes Easy,” Griffin and his father share an emotional story of overcoming adversity and the ritual of shaving—a touching metaphor for perseverance.
Shaquem, celebrated for becoming the NFL’s first one‑handed player, was drafted by the Seahawks in 2018. Gillette used his journey to amplify themes of determination and authenticity, making him a powerful ambassador for their message.
Shaquem Griffin: Your Best Never Comes Easy
Gillette’s emotional short film chronicles Griffin’s childhood, his father teaching him to shave, and his ascent to the NFL despite having only one hand. The tagline emphasizes that true excellence is forged through hardship. The commercial uses his story to redefine what it means to be “a man”—highlighting empathy, courage, and tenacity.
Other football players in Gillette campaigns
Gillette has also partnered with a range of football figures beyond Shaquem:
Former NFL quarterback Cam Newton, featured in broader-brand spots promoting confidence and preparation on game day.
Saquon Barkley and Christian McCaffrey, NFL running backs who appeared in Gillette ProGlide spots, tying grooming to performance with the slogan “Look Good, Game Good”.
Tua Tagovailoa and Jalen Hurts, joined by other NFL rookies, starred in a commercial promoting draft training during the pandemic under the message “Every Day Is Gameday”.
These athletes appeared in more conventional commercial settings emphasizing athleticism, confidence, and preparation—rather than deeply personal narratives.
Why Shaquem Griffin resonated in Gillette’s messaging
Shaquem’s story aligns powerfully with Gillette’s evolving tone:
Symbol of resilience – overcoming a physical limitation while excelling in the NFL.
Authenticity – his shaving ritual, taught by his dad, serves as a metaphor for self-discipline and growth.
Diversity in representation – showcasing under‑represented athletes in a major ad campaign.
All these facets helped Gillette shift its branding toward emotional storytelling rooted in values, not just athletic charisma.
Impact and public reception
The Shaquem Griffin commercial received widespread praise for its emotional depth and inspirational tone. Audiences and media lauded it as a standout example of cause‑driven advertising.
Gillette’s larger “We Believe” and “The Best Men Can Be” campaigns sparked both acclaim and criticism, challenging traditional notions of masculinity and prompting social conversations.
Griffin’s ad offered a more personal and uplifting angle, standing apart from controversy by centering on achievement and humanity.
Where to watch the commercial
The Shaquem Griffin spot is available via Gillette’s official YouTube channel and other video platforms. While I can’t embed the video directly here, searching for “Gillette Shaquem Griffin Your Best Never Comes Easy” should take you directly to the ad. The YouTube upload includes the full 60-second commercial along with behind‑the‑scenes footage and viewer comments.
Summary
In summary, Shaquem Griffin is the primary football player featured in Gillette’s most emotionally resonant commercial, which explores themes of adversity, family, and personal excellence. Gillette has also featured several current NFL stars such as Cam Newton, Saquon Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, Tua Tagovailoa, and Jalen Hurts in broader ambassador or lifestyle ads. However, it is Shaquem’s journey that best embodies the brand’s shift toward storytelling rooted in character, not just athletic fame.
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