Hollywood actor Morgan Freeman faced criticism from NASCAR fans due to his lackluster delivery of the engine start command at the Pennzoil 400 in Las Vegas. Many fans took to social media to express their disappointment, calling the moment underwhelming.
Freeman, who was the Grand Marshal for the race, is famous for his deep and powerful voice. Fans had anticipated an exciting and dramatic announcement, but his subdued tone left them unimpressed, leading to frustration on social media.
Before the event, Freeman had shared his excitement about attending, stating that he was eager to experience the energy and passion of the race. Newsweek Sports quoted him expressing his honor at being part of the tradition and looking forward to making the event unforgettable.
However, after the race, many fans voiced their disappointment over his delivery. One simply called it “a letdown,” while another described it as “the most unenthusiastic command ever.” Some even criticized the pre-race broadcast team, while others felt Freeman’s tone was too reserved for the Las Vegas atmosphere.
Some reactions were particularly harsh, with one fan declaring it the “worst ever in NASCAR history.” However, others defended Freeman, pointing out that his calm and measured voice is part of what makes him iconic.
One fan noted that Freeman is 87 years old, so it was unrealistic to expect him to shout excitedly for an extended time.
Freeman has a history with NASCAR, having previously worked with Fox NASCAR to narrate a preview for the Daytona 500. His deep and poetic narration captivated audiences, adding to his reputation as a legendary voice.
In the video, he described the race as a high-speed battleground, comparing it to a coliseum where drivers must rely on skill, courage, and quick decision-making. He emphasized that the Daytona 500 is a defining moment in a driver’s career, where split-second choices can determine legacies and turn competitors into legends.
