Bagging Buble
Supermarket Asda has struck gold by securing international crooner Michael Buble, 48, for its upcoming Christmas advert. The Canadian singer, famous for his festive hits, will take on the role of a checkout worker. Asda hopes Buble's star power will be a stroke of genius for their holiday campaign.
Unlikely A-listers
However, Buble isn't the first unlikely celebrity to appear in a commercial. Many famous faces have lent their talents to memorable – and sometimes cringe-worthy – ad campaigns. Here are some of the best and worst celeb promos ever:
Mariah Carey's crisp ad
In 2019, diva Mariah Carey, 54, starred in a Christmas advert for Walkers crisps. The iconic singer belted out her hit song "All I Want For Christmas Is You" before engaging in a faux battle with a Christmas elf over the last packet of crisps. It was certainly a festive treat for fans.
David Beckham and Sharpie
Back in 2008, football legend David Beckham, 48, appeared in a US advert for Sharpie pens. In the commercial, Beckham playfully tried to snatch the pens from fans who approached him for autographs. It wasn't quite the glamorous Armani ad, but it definitely showed Beckham's fun side.
Ozzy Osborne's buttery cameo
In a bizarre pairing, heavy metal legend Ozzy Osborne, 74, starred in a 2006 commercial for "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter". Channeling his rock 'n' roll persona, Osbourne declared himself the "Prince of Darkness" before scoffing at the idea of baking fairy cakes, claiming he was more inclined towards rock cakes. A truly unconventional choice.
Uma Thurman and Schweppes
Film star Uma Thurman, 53, seductively endorsed Schweppes in a 2011 ad. Playing up her mysterious persona, Thurman stated she needed the drink at all times. When asked if she meant sex, she coolly responded with, "No, Schweppes. Hey, what did you expect?" Definitely a cringe-worthy moment.
Harvey Kettel's insurance gig
Hollywood veteran Harvey Kettel, 84, reprised his iconic Pulp Fiction character for a series of Direct Line insurance adverts in 2014. Delivering a line reminiscent of his film role, Kettel assured viewers that he was "Winston Wolfe, I fix problems". A relief to know he's got our back.
Kim Cattrall's Nintendo love
Sex And The City star Kim Cattrall, 67, showcased her love for video games in a 2012 Nintendo ad. Embracing her seductive image, Cattrall purrs, "There are many men in my life but I'll always find time for Mario" – referring to the iconic game character. A playful endorsement indeed.
Robert De Niro becomes The Cobfather
Legendary actor Robert De Niro, 80, added some mafia flair to a 2019 advert for British bakers Warburtons. De Niro's involvement led witty observers to dub him "The Cobfather" – a clever nod to his gangster movie career. It seems Warburtons made him an offer he couldn't refuse.
Jenson Button's rhyming review
In a 2011 Head & Shoulders ad, former Formula 1 champion Jenson Button, 43, reminisced about his life through rhyme. From "racing" to "spacing" and "wow, it's bracing," Button's efforts earned him a spot on Campaign magazine's worst ads of the year. A memorable – albeit dubious – achievement.
In the world of advertising, celebrity endorsements can be a hit or miss. As we eagerly anticipate Michael Buble's appearance in Asda's Christmas ad, we can only hope it will join the ranks of the most memorable and entertaining celeb promos.
