Snoop Dogg Becomes a Surprise Olympic Star
One of the breakout stars of the Olympic Games is a 52-year-old millionaire who has never played professional sports.
But in a world of athletes, US rapper Snoop Dogg has become an unlikely star in Paris.
Snoop has been working for US TV company NBC at the Games, and he's hit new heights with a number of memorable moments.
He carried the Olympic torch, swam with Michael Phelps, danced with Simone Biles and cheered on American Caeleb Dressel with the swimmer's wife and son.
"I'm having so much fun," he said.
"I love the American athletes and competition. This is what I'm here for."
US TV personality Martha Stewart said she's proud of how Snoop is taking on the challenge. She has been impressed by his ability to connect with Olympians and their family members.
"I think he's done an amazing job for the Olympics," said Stewart, who is 83. The pair went to the horse riding competition both wearing helmets, black jackets and white pants.
"He has made it so accessible to everybody," she continued. "That's his talent. Everybody loves him."
Snoop has won fans by being himself in front of television cameras.
"This is what I do. I do it every day," said the rapper, who had already become a fan favorite during the Tokyo Games, when he and actor Kevin Hart did some in-studio commentary.
Snoop is part of NBC's bet to improve ratings by combining coverage with pop culture. So far, the plan has worked.
During the first five days of the games, 34 million people a day were watching on NBC, cable networks and streaming service Peacock, up from 19 million over the same period in Tokyo.
Snoop has come a long way since he broke through 30 years ago as part of the West Coast rap scene. He's gone on to act in movies as well as continuing to make music.
