Jon Hamm is set to host the NFL Honors, marking its 15th anniversary on Thursday night in San Francisco. The awards show, which celebrates the achievements of players, will air on NBC and NFL Network just days before the Super Bowl.
When Hamm first attended the NFL Honors, the event was still in its early stages, struggling to define its identity. Reflecting on that time, he stated, “They didn”t really know what it was going to be, but it was fun.” The actor, known for his Emmy-winning role in “Mad Men,” has experience hosting various shows, including “Saturday Night Live” and the ESPYs. However, he acknowledges that the NFL Honors requires a unique approach.
“We”re not trying to break new ground in comedy or make anything that”s going to offend anybody,” Hamm explained. He emphasized the event”s purpose of celebrating players and their accomplishments, contributing to a positive atmosphere as they gear up for the Super Bowl, where the Seattle Seahawks will face the New England Patriots.
In addition to football, Hamm highlighted the cultural significance of Super Bowl week, particularly with Bad Bunny set to perform at halftime. Bad Bunny”s recent success at the Grammys, where his album “Debí Tirar Más Fotos” won album of the year, marks a significant achievement for Spanish-language music. Hamm expressed his admiration, saying, “I applaud him as an artist and as a fellow Pisces.” The two share the same birthday and have developed a friendship.
The NFL Honors have become a highly anticipated event for players, especially those whose individual successes may not always correlate with playoff achievements. Hamm noted, “You got guys like Myles Garrett breaking the sack record. He ain”t sniffing the Super Bowl, but it”s still something to be celebrated, right?”
Hamm, a lifelong football enthusiast, grew up supporting the St. Louis Cardinals and Rams, and later the Kansas City Chiefs. He understands the importance of the NFL Honors as a unifying event for players, stating, “They only play 17, 18 games. It”s nice for them to get celebrated the way they should.”
As the evening promises to bring players together, Hamm referred to the ceremony as “the appetizer” before the Super Bowl, emphasizing its role in the festivities of the week.
