12 of Green Bay’s top pop culture moments, beyond the Packers
Green Bay, Wisconsin has made its mark in pop culture history through various connections to celebrities and memorable events. While primarily known as a football town, Green Bay boasts a range of interesting encounters with fame. From Elvis Presley’s favorite amusement park ride to Charlie Sheen’s antics at Lambeau Field, the city has had its share of noteworthy moments.
One surprising appearance of Green Bay Packers players took place in the movie “Pitch Perfect 2”. Offensive linemen, David Bakhtiari, T.J. Lang, Josh Sitton, and Don Barclay, along with Clay Matthews and Jordan Rodgers, showcased their singing skills in the film, holding their own in a musical face-off. The unexpected cameo came about when Bakhtiari reached out to the director, Elizabeth Banks, on Twitter, ultimately landing the team a spot in the movie. The players enjoyed their time filming and even walked the red carpet during the movie’s premiere.
Actor Tony Shalhoub, famous for roles in “Monk” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” has roots in Green Bay. Growing up in the city’s east side, Shalhoub performed in local plays before pursuing a successful acting career. Fond of his hometown, Shalhoub remains connected to Green Bay, attending Packers games and visiting the area regularly. His ties to the community have endeared him to locals, making him a beloved figure in Green Bay.
In a surprising turn of events, actor Charlie Sheen caused a social media frenzy when he appeared at Lambeau Field during a Dallas Cowboys-Packers game. Sheen’s enthusiastic participation in the game’s festivities, including joining fans in the stands during the iconic “Jump Around” ritual, caught the attention of many. Subsequent celebrations at a local bar further added to the excitement, creating a memorable moment for Green Bay residents and visitors alike.
A notable addition to Bay Beach Amusement Park came in the form of Elvis Presley’s favorite roller coaster. Originally located at Libertyland in Memphis, where the legendary singer enjoyed it immensely, the ride now resides in Green Bay. After extensive reconstruction efforts, the roller coaster became a popular attraction at Bay Beach, complete with its own reserved parking spot dedicated to Elvis. The ride’s historical significance has been immortalized in songs and discussions, solidifying its status as a rock star in the amusement park realm.
Another infamous incident occurred when the Red Hot Chili Peppers performed in Green Bay sans clothing. During a concert at Riverside Ballroom, the band surprised audience members by shedding their clothes on stage, resulting in a brief, albeit memorable, moment of indecent exposure. While the incident led to their swift exit from the venue, it remains a notable chapter in the band’s history and the city’s pop culture archives.
Finally, actress Olivia Munn created a buzz in Green Bay with her mention of a local meat market during an appearance on “Conan.” Sharing an anecdote about putting “meat on hold” at Maplewood Meats in Howard, Munn highlighted her adjustment to life in the Midwest. The humorous exchange became a viral sensation, showcasing the charm and quirks of Green Bay living.
In conclusion, Green Bay’s influence on pop culture is a blend of surprising encounters, iconic moments, and beloved connections. From celebrity sightings to amusing incidents, the city’s contributions to the entertainment world are as diverse as they are entertaining.