Malektronic Rocketman

Lore & Background

The Malektronic Rocketman was created by Malektronic CEO Ben Malek as part of a marketing campaign in partnership with the Tampa Bay Lightning. The character originally gave away Malektronic Bluetooth speakers at games. After one such giveaway, Ben decided to have the Rocketman sit in one of his rink-side seats, and people began posting pictures and questions on social media.

The Rocketman was first seen at a Tampa Bay Lightning vs. L.A. Kings game on February 7, 2015, but gained nationwide exposure at a later game on March 25, 2014, when the Lightning played the Florida Panthers. Video and images from that game launched the Rocketman on a viral social journey that continued through the 2015 Stanley Cup playoffs and into the 2015–16 NHL season. More than one person has worn the suit, and depending on the event, multiple actors may don it.

During the 2014–2015 Stanley Cup Championship, the Rocketman attended all home games. When the Lightning faced the Chicago Blackhawks, some social media and news sources noted that CEO Ben Malek had previously been a die-hard Chicago fan. Ben assured Tampa fans that he and the Rocketman were still behind Tampa Bay 100% in the playoffs.

Reader's Guide

The Malektronic Rocketman occupies a unique place in sports marketing and fan culture. Originally believed by many to be a superfan, the astronaut figure was later revealed to be part of a marketing campaign by Malektronic LLC. This sparked debate over whether the Rocketman was a genuine superfan or simply a marketing ploy. Malektronic has not denied the marketing aspect but maintains that the superfan element is valid, noting that most employees and CEO Ben Malek are dedicated Lightning fans—Ben being a long-time season ticket holder and suite owner. Some fans have even bestowed the 'Superfan' title on Ben.

The Rocketman's viral rise during the 2015 Stanley Cup playoffs demonstrated how a simple, visually distinctive character can capture public imagination in the social media era. Its appearances on SportsCenter and news broadcasts amplified its reach beyond hockey audiences. The character also introduced an element of intrigue when Ben Malek's past as a Chicago Blackhawks fan came to light during the finals, though he reaffirmed loyalty to Tampa Bay. Ultimately, the Rocketman remains a notable example of how corporate sponsorship and genuine fandom can blur, creating a lasting, if debated, symbol of a team's playoff run.

Did You Know?

• More than one person has worn the Rocketman suit, and multiple actors may appear at the same event.
• CEO Ben Malek was a former die-hard Chicago Blackhawks fan before the 2015 Stanley Cup finals.