Last Christmas video ‘remade’ as a festive supermarket commercial

Albert Heijn, the Netherlands’ biggest supermarket chain, is celebrating the 40th anniversary of Last Christmas…

As part of an advert the annual festive anthem by Wham! has been used in the retail giant’s 2024 Christmas campaign as scenes from the music video are remade with a twist.

The commercial pays homage to the original video by recreating unforgettable moments, including the iconic dinner table scene that has come to symbolize holiday warmth and togetherness. Adding to its resonance, the video features a special cameo from Andrew Ridgeley, co-founder of Wham!, adding an authentic link to the song’s enduring legacy.

Andrew Ridgeley:

“I am so pleased to have been a part of this year’s Albert Heijn Christmas advert. Its affectionate and clever tribute to Last Christmas, achieved by its playful and faithful recreation of the video, is extremely well-produced and a testament to the song’s place in the contemporary Christmas landscape.”

Harry who dreams of being in the Last Christmas video

Blending nostalgia with modern production techniques, the campaign pays tribute to the lasting cultural impact of Last Christmas while engaging new audiences. The release at the start of thsi month coincided with global celebrations of the song’s anniversary, including BBC Two documentary, Wham!: Last Christmas Unwrapped, which delves into the cultural and historical significance of the music video and pulled in impressive ratings for the Beeb last Saturday night.

The reimagining of Last Christmas reflects broader themes of connection and shared traditions—values that remain at the heart of holiday celebrations across the globe. Albert Heijn’s interpretation of the music video serves as a tribute to the role music and shared experiences play in shaping the festive season.

The film launched with a teaser on social media, featuring Albert Heijn’s supermarket manager humming the tune of Last Christmas alongside Andrew Ridgeley, who playfully remarked, “One of my Christmas favorites.” This lighthearted introduction was followed by the release of the full commercial, now broadcasting throughout December on television and digital platforms.