Hellmann’s is set to feature actors Andy Samberg and Elle Fanning together in a 2026 Super Bowl commercial, blending humor and nostalgia to highlight the brand’s iconic mayonnaise. The ad, filmed at Los Angeles’ renowned Canter’s Deli, showcases Samberg channeling the energy of Neil Diamond in a musical parody inspired by a popular singalong anthem.
Samberg describes his role in the commercial as an exciting opportunity.
“I was told that there was going to be a re-imagining of a Neil Diamond song for a spot, and it was for the Super Bowl, which was very exciting of course,”
he revealed to PEOPLE. Known for his comedic performances, Samberg adds that the campaign aligns well with his personality and passions.
Samberg’s Connection to the Role and Musical Inspiration
The 46-year-old comedian expressed appreciation for Hellmann’s previous advertisements, including Kate McKinnon’s viral “mayo cat” campaign and last year’s When Harry Met Sally parody featuring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan.
“I thought there was probably going to be some fun to be had,”
he stated. A fan of the Sweet Caroline singer, Samberg emphasized his admiration for Neil Diamond, saying, “Love Neil Diamond,” and shared,
“Not just him, but I also love Will Ferrell’s impression of him he used to do on SNL.”
He went further to acknowledge Diamond’s lasting cultural impact:
“He’s an American classic, and he writes songs people want to sing along to.”
Samberg’s affinity for both sandwiches and music made him a natural choice for the campaign.
“I mean, for me it’s like you put Neil Diamond and sandwiches together. Those are two of my interests,”
he commented. On condiments, he added,
“I think with condiments, there’s never too many. That’s my hot take.”
Elle Fanning’s Enthusiasm and Family Pride
Actress Elle Fanning, 27, described her involvement as an immediate affirmative.
“It’s a very big deal and a very big deal for my family,”
she said. Fanning shared that her grandfather, Rick Arrington, was an NFL quarterback, highlighting the family’s strong connection to football and Super Bowl traditions.
“My mom is the most proud of me to get this. We screamed together. I could not wait to tell her. We love the Super Bowl. We throw parties. We watch it and we love the commercials.”
She revealed plans to keep her appearance in the commercial a surprise for some:
“So now I get to pop up in one,”
and continued,
“I’m definitely keeping it a surprise from some people. I want to do a little jump scare on people.”
A Personal Touch: Fanning’s Love of Mayonnaise and Family Recipes
Besides the excitement of the campaign, Fanning’s appreciation for mayonnaise adds a personal layer to her participation.
“I will put it on anything,”
she said. Connecting to family traditions, she spoke of a recipe passed down from her grandmother involving mayonnaise and tomato sandwiches on white bread.
“My grandmother would make, and she still does, but mayonnaise and tomato sandwiches on white bread. She would make those with her father. And so that was something that she kind of passed down to me.”
Anticipation for the Super Bowl and Hellmann’s Branding
The pairing of Samberg and Fanning in the Hellmann’s 2026 Super Bowl ad continues the brand’s trend of blending humor, music, and nostalgia to engage viewers during one of television’s most-watched broadcasts. With Samberg’s musical parody and Fanning’s heartfelt connection to the product, the commercial promises to leave a memorable impression on audiences invested in both entertainment and food culture.
As the Super Bowl approaches, fans can expect a playful and poignant spot that leans into shared cultural moments, reinforcing Hellmann’s identity as a beloved condiment brand. The commercial’s release during the game reflects the ongoing importance of imaginative and celebrity-driven advertising in creating strong consumer connections.
