Coca-Cola’s AI Holiday Ad Sparks Backlash for Second Year in a Row

Coca-Cola has released another AI-generated holiday ad for 2025, reigniting backlash over its use of artificial intelligence in festive storytelling. Despite criticism last year, the brand doubled down with a new “Holidays Are Coming” campaign created entirely by generative AI.

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By Ilaria Canevara

Coca-Cola’s 2025 holiday campaign has once again stirred debate, as the company released a new version of its iconic “Holidays Are Coming” ad—this time fully generated by artificial intelligence. The ad, which debuted globally in early November, features AI-rendered visuals of Santa Claus, glowing Coca-Cola trucks, and wide-eyed animals watching the convoy roll through snowy landscapes.

The campaign follows a similar AI-driven effort in 2024, which was met with criticism for its “soulless” aesthetic and lack of human warmth. This year’s version, created in partnership with AI studio Secret Level, aimed to improve technical quality while maintaining the brand’s nostalgic tone.

What’s in the Ad

The 2025 ad includes:

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A digitally animated Santa opening a bottle of Coca-Cola
A convoy of LED-lit trucks traveling through snowy towns
AI-generated animals like hedgehogs, seals, and rabbits reacting to the spectacle
A soundtrack featuring The Kingdom Choir’s rendition of “Holidays Are Coming”

Coca-Cola says the ad blends “heritage with modern innovation,” using AI to “fuse nostalgia with next-gen creativity”.

The Backlash

Despite the brand’s enthusiasm, viewers and critics have voiced concerns. Many called the ad “AI slop” and “devoid of soul”, citing its overly polished, impersonal visuals. Artists and creatives criticized Coca-Cola for replacing human storytellers with algorithms. Glitches in the animation—like uncanny lighting and awkward animal expressions—highlighted the limitations of generative tools.

On social media, reactions ranged from confusion to outrage, with some users asking why Coca-Cola didn’t return to its classic live-action format.

Coca-Cola’s Response

Coca-Cola’s global VP of generative AI, Pratik Thakar, defended the campaign, saying it was guided by human storytellers to ensure emotional resonance. The company insists that AI is a tool for enhancing creativity, not replacing it.

Still, the ad has reignited broader conversations about authenticity in advertising, especially during a season built on tradition and emotional connection.