Keira Knightley and Joe Wilkinson have reunited in Waitrose's 2026 Christmas advert, The Perfect Gift Part 2, a sequel that has already won over viewers within hours of its launch. Fans have been quick to rate it above rival campaigns from M&S and John Lewis, with some declaring it their favourite festive commercial of the year.
A Romantic Sequel Unfolds
The advert picks up the story of 'Phil Phil', the lovestruck ordinary bloke played by Joe Wilkinson, whose unlikely romance with Keira Knightley began in last Christmas's advert. This time, Keira is preparing to wed a dashing fiancé called Hugo Bunty-Griffin, played by Alex Hassell. When Phil realises he is on the verge of losing the woman he adores, he sets about creating a grand romantic gesture she cannot ignore.
His gesture takes the form of a homemade beef Wellington and a jar of sauce marked "Marry Me Instead?" Phil interrupts the wedding to deliver his declaration but is dragged out of the ceremony before she can reply. Keira later surprises Phil with the same jar of sauce, proposing marriage to him.
Viewer Reactions Pour In
The commercial has sparked discussion online since its premiere on Tuesday morning (November 10). One admirer wrote: "CHRISTMAS IS SAVED," while an emotional viewer shared: "Sitting here sobbing." A third viewer added: "Oh I couldn't love it more! ! This one wins the Christmas advert 2026! ! !" A fourth said: "Why this isn't a feature-length film I'll never know, but bravo Waitrose, you've done it again! Merry Christmas."
Others have declared this their favourite festive commercial of the year, with one commenting: "Now THIS wins the battle of the Christmas ads this year... Well done Waitrose, you pulled it out of the bag this time! ! ! Felt like I was watching a feature length film! Congrats to all involved in the production of this advert! ! ! Loved it! ! !"
Director Praises the Production
"Brilliant, Waitrose have won the Christmas Ads crown this year by a mile," said another impressed viewer. A final fan added: "Who would believe a Waitrose advert could bring tears to your eyes but you achieved the impossible! ! Fantastic - the best Crimbo advert of them all."
The commercial's director, Molly Manners, also shared her enthusiasm for the production. Manners said: "It's been an absolute joy to extend the Waitrose cinematic universe and whole heartedly embrace the Rom and the Com this year. I love this team and this cast and am so excited to see the curveball of Alex Hassell as Phil's love rival unleashed."
The Perfect Gift Part 2 is available to watch on YouTube.
