NBA All-Star Blake Griffin and his comedic talents are back in a starring role in a series of new television commercials for Kia's best-selling Optima midsize sedan. Continuing the signature, satirical comedy of previous efforts, Griffin is cast in the lead role for several big-budget action movies set in the Old West, ancient Rome and an aircraft carrier in the series of three 60-and 30-second spots. Much to the concern of his directors, Griffin begins improvising and replaces his scripted mode of transport – be it horse, chariot or fighter jet – arriving instead in the Kia Optima, and making each movie better if he does so say himself. The first spot, "Showdown," begins airing online today and on television on Christmas day during NBA programming with the others debuting throughout the NBA season.

"As a global brand ambassador, this marks Blake's fourth campaign for our best-selling Optima and he keeps getting better and better," said Tim Chaney, vice president of marketing communications, KMA. "The Optima has been Kia's most popular vehicle since the time when our partnership with Blake began, and he has helped us foster connections with basketball fans across the country, increase awareness and enhance our brand image."

Created by David&Goliath, Kia's advertising agency of record, the Griffin spots can be viewed as they roll out on all of Kia's social and digital platforms, including YouTube.com/Kia and Kia.com. In addition to the spots, an exclusive virtual staring contest with Blake Griffin will launch on the recently redesigned Tumblr page, blinkgriffin.com.