Soulless and creepy: Coca-Colas AI Christmas ad is not landing

Published: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at 4:00 pm

Coca-Cola's AI-Generated Christmas Ad Sparks Backlash

Coca-Cola's 2025 holiday campaign, unveiled this week, has ignited a firestorm of criticism, primarily due to its heavy reliance on artificial intelligence. The ad, featuring the brand's iconic red trucks and festive imagery, has been widely panned for lacking the warmth and human touch traditionally associated with Coca-Cola's Christmas commercials.

Viewers have expressed disappointment, arguing that the AI-generated content feels "chilly" and "soulless," a stark contrast to the cheerful and nostalgic campaigns of the past. Social media platforms have been flooded with negative reactions, with many users lamenting the absence of human creativity and craftsmanship. Critics have also pointed to the potential for cost-cutting measures within the advertising industry, questioning the ethics of using AI to replace human workers.

The company's decision to embrace AI for its holiday campaign has been met with a mix of sarcasm, anger, and calls for a return to human-made content. Some users have shared memes and comparisons, while others have promoted alternative, human-created projects. Despite the negative response, Coca-Cola has defended its decision, calling it a "modern storytelling experiment."

BNN's Perspective:

While technological advancements offer exciting possibilities, this situation highlights the importance of balancing innovation with the human element. Coca-Cola's misstep serves as a reminder that consumers value authenticity and emotional connection, especially during the holiday season. Finding the right balance between embracing new technologies and preserving the human touch will be crucial for brands seeking to resonate with audiences in the future.

Keywords: Coca-Cola, AI, Christmas ad, holiday campaign, artificial intelligence, backlash, criticism, social media, human touch, advertising, marketing, consumer reaction, digital experiment, nostalgia, technology, brand image

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