Waitrose has released its 2026 Christmas advert, The Perfect Gift Part 2, starring Keira Knightley and Joe Wilkinson, and viewers have already crowned it the best festive advert of the year.
The short film, which debuted on Tuesday morning, November 10, has been praised for its heartwarming storyline and star-studded cast, with many saying it beats major competitors like M&S and the National Lottery.
A romantic sequel with a twist
Knightley plays herself in the advert, which picks up a year after the events of the first chapter, The Perfect Gift. This time, she is set to marry a charming groom-to-be called Hugo Bunty-Griffin, played by Alex Hassell.
But when Phil Phil, played by Joe Wilkinson, realises he is about to lose the woman of his dreams, he makes a grand gesture: a homemade beef Wellington and a jar of sauce labelled "Marry Me Instead?". He interrupts the wedding to send his message but is dragged out of the ceremony before she can respond.
The love story continues as Keira later surprises Phil with the same jar of sauce, asking for his hand in marriage.
Viewers react online
The advert has sparked a wave of positive reactions online since its release. One fan wrote: "CHRISTMAS IS SAVED," while a second said: "Oh my gosh I am obsessed this is amazing!!!!!!!!"
A third viewer added: "Oh I couldn't love it more!! This one wins the Christmas advert 2026!!!" With a fourth stating: "Why this isn't a feature-length film I'll never know, but bravo Waitrose, you've done it again! Merry Christmas."
Others have agreed that this is their favourite Christmas advert 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!!!"
"Brilliant, Waitrose have won the Christmas Ads crown this year by a mile," said another impressed viewer. And 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."
Director on the festive spirit
The advert's director, Molly Manners, also shed light on the festive spirit behind the project. 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 can be watched on YouTube.
