John Travolta is once again stepping into the role of Santa Claus for a new Capital One advertisement, bringing his iconic Grease character to life in the latest campaign. The John Travolta Santa Grease commercial premiered during the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade airing on NBC on November 27, drawing attention for its blend of nostalgia and holiday spirit.
Travolta Reprises a Classic Act With a Holiday Twist
In the new commercial, the 71-year-old John Travolta appears as Santa, donning the classic red suit and performing the memorable Grease hit “Greased Lightnin’” inside a workshop designed as a sleigh repair shop. Surrounded by elves, Travolta recreates the high-energy performance that made his role famous, adding a festive spin appropriate for the holiday season.
Spotlight on Capital One’s Campaign
The campaign’s description from the company highlights the unique combination of holiday tradition and reference to Travolta’s film career:
“This winter, Santa is turning his holiday clunker into Greased Lightnin’ with a little help from his elves and 1.5% cash back with the Capital One Quicksilver card,”
— Capital One
The commercial not only promotes the benefits of the Quicksilver card but also generates buzz through its playful nostalgia and celebrity appeal.
Building on Previous Holiday Ads
John Travolta has a history of portraying Santa Claus in Capital One commercials, with notable appearances including a 2020 ad where he reunited with his Pulp Fiction co-star. This ongoing collaboration has become part of the company’s holiday marketing tradition, further elevating its seasonal campaigns.
Family Spotlight for Travolta
Aside from his commercial work, Travolta’s family remains in the news, as his daughter recently secured a role in one of his upcoming movies, reflecting the continued presence of his family in the entertainment industry.
By merging pop culture nostalgia with festive cheer, the John Travolta Santa Grease commercial stands out as a unique moment in holiday advertising. Its debut during a major televised event ensures wide visibility, likely strengthening Capital One’s seasonal branding efforts.
