November 5th 2024.
The wait is over, folks! Waitrose is teasing us with their highly-anticipated Christmas ad featuring some of your favorite stars. And if that wasn't enough, they've added a festive cliffhanger to keep us on the edge of our seats. Directed by Lucy Forbes, known for her work on "This is Going to Hurt," Waitrose has finally released the first part of their campaign titled "Sweet Suspicion: A Waitrose Mystery."
This year, Waitrose has taken a unique approach by creating a "whodunnit" themed ad. The star-studded cast includes Matthew Macfadyen from "Succession," Joe Wilkinson from "Afterlife," Rakhee Thakrar from "Sex Education," and Sian Clifford from "Fleabag." Joining them are Dustin Demri-Burns from "Slow Horses" and Eryl Maynard from "Agatha Christie's Miss Marple."
But that's not all, as the ad also features some mouth-watering new additions to Waitrose's Christmas range, such as the melting Reuben Rarebit, crumbly Brown Butter Mince Pies with Cognac, and a Glorious Treacle Glazed Turkey Crown. The 90-second film, created by Saatchi & Saatchi, revolves around a family of food lovers getting ready for Christmas when they suddenly realize that their show-stopping No.1 Waitrose Red Velvet Bauble Dessert has gone missing. Cue the suspenseful music.
Macfadyen, who plays the role of an amateur detective, is determined to find out who the culprit is. Could it be the disgruntled Grandma, or perhaps the perfect hostess, Samira, who's had enough of the holiday chaos? As the suspects pile up, the nation is left wondering who would commit such a crime of passion.
But don't worry, this is just the first part of the ad. Waitrose has promised to reveal the dessert thief in the coming weeks with a 60-second film. Nathan Ansell, Customer Director at Waitrose, says, "For the first time, we're keeping Waitrose customers guessing with a 'whodunnit' festive crime drama featuring a stellar cast for this year's Christmas ad."
Macfadyen also shared his excitement, saying, "I wonder if my extensive repertoire of past detective roles led to me to this very moment – starring in this wonderful Waitrose whodunnit. Working with such a great cast on such a fun project for Christmas was such a joy." Clifford, who plays the role of May, adds, "It was a really tough gig having to eat the delicious Waitrose food for four days, but someone's gotta do it, and I was happy to give it a go – nothing says Christmas like indulging!"
But the suspense doesn't just end with the ad. Waitrose has planned a social-first activation with exclusive character alibis and a special appearance by some of the nation's favorite detectives, all trying to help crack the case. They've also set up a physical evidence board at London Kings Cross Station, and have partnered with ITV and The Times & Sunday Times.
Goodwin, the Chief Creative Officer at Saatchi & Saatchi, shares his excitement, saying, "When an idea is so good and the brand is so loved, that actors we're not typically used to seeing in ads show up and steal the scenes – and the pudding – you know you've got a Christmas treat on your hands." And we couldn't agree more.
So, who do you think is the culprit? Was it Uncle Phil, or perhaps Fig the cat? We'll just have to wait and see. But don't worry, the No.1 Red Velvet Dessert will be available in stores on December 19th, or you can pre-order it now on Waitrose.com. Until then, indulge in the individual Red Velvet Bauble Desserts available in-store and online and enjoy the suspense of this festive whodunnit.
And if that wasn't enough, Waitrose is also inviting you to share your favorite Christmas advert of all time. Who knows, maybe your pick will make it to their list. For any celebrity stories, videos, or pictures, you can reach out to The Agency entertainment team via email, phone, or their Submit Stuff page. They would love to hear from you.
And just when you thought it couldn't get any better, Sabrina the Teenage Witch fans will be delighted to know that the stars have reunited for an epic new Christmas film. And Mariah Carey just made her snowman very happy with her "iconic" sensual Christmas announcement. Are you as excited as we are? We can't wait for Christmas!
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