Walmart has released its 2026 Christmas advert, titled 'A Who Knew? Carol', which reunites the Muppets for a sequel of sorts to the 1992 film The Muppet Christmas Carol. The spot has been met with widespread praise from fans, with some calling it the best Christmas advert ever made.
Muppets Return in Walmart's Festive Spot
The advert brings back beloved characters from the film, with Kermit reprising his role as Bob Cratchit, Miss Piggy as his wife Emily, and Fozzie Bear as 'Fozziwig'. Gonzo returns as Dickens and Rizzo the Rat as his assistant, serving as narrator and fourth wall-breaking foil, just as they did in the original movie.
Other familiar faces include Bean Bunny, Scooter, Beaker, and Dr Bunsen Honeydew, along with glimpses of the Swedish Chef, chickens, penguins, and top-hat-wearing pigs. Pepe the King Prawn, who did not appear in The Muppet Christmas Carol, gets his own moment, presenting Rizzo with a lava lamp and quoting 'light the lamp not the rat'.
The Surprise Reveal of Scrooge
The big deviation comes at the end of the advert, when Scrooge is revealed to be played by Walton Goggins, known for his roles in The White Lotus and Justified. Goggins previously transformed into the Grinch for Walmart's Christmas advert last year.
The spot pays homage to the film's setting and scripting, opening over snow-covered tiled roofs just like the original, and is a take on the song 'Scrooge' from The Muppet Christmas Carol. The advert also features a cameo from Stephanie Beatriz, star of Brooklyn 99 and Encanto.
Fan Reaction to the Unexpected Sequel
Following the release of the advert, fans reacted in droves to share their appreciation for the unexpected follow-up to the 90s classic. A YouTube user called Tyler commented, 'This is the best ad I have ever seen,' while another user, AmazementParkShorts, wrote: 'Best Christmas ad of the year.'
Another fan, Char, shared: 'My brother just sent me this. It is the best Christmas ad EVER!!!!!!!!!!❤❤❤❤❤,' and justjetz added: 'I never thought I see this kind of ad that is a genuine masterpiece.'
