DICK’s Sporting Goods Recreates Iconic Film Moments With NFL Star J.J. Watt in New Holiday Ad

DICK’s Sporting Goods is tackling the holiday season with a major NFL star in a new holiday ad campaign. The company recreated iconic film moments in the new spot, tapping into the nostalgia of the season of giving.

According to a press release, the new commercial stars the company’s brand partner and NFL legend, J.J. Watt, alongside brothers Derek and T.J. and parents Connie and John. It’s titled, “A Watt Holiday Classic.”

J.J., Derek, T.J., Connie, and John are seen huddling around a shopping cart, getting ready to finish up a holiday shopping trip at DICK’S Sporting Goods. Somehow, the family accidentally leaves J.J. behind. Sound familiar?

The store closes and J.J. realizes he’s alone. He makes the most of the situation by playing as hard as he can with all of the sporting goods within the store. Each scene pays homage to beloved holiday movie classics like “Home Alone,” “Elf,” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” and “A Christmas Story.”

‘I Could’ Have’ve Spent All Night in There’ said NFL Legend J.J. Watt

J.J. Watt had the best time filming this commercial with his family. He called the experience “a blast.”

“Any chance I get to spend some extra time at DICK’S Sporting Goods, I take it. And our family definitely made the most of this one,” said Watt. “Getting to re-enact our favorite holiday movies and start my gift shopping a little early was a blast, and with the massive selection of products, I could’ve spent all night in there!”

“J.J. has been a great partner this year. After the fun we had filming J.J.’s House, and during a time that is all about family and friends, we knew we had to bring him back in-store and find a way to incorporate Derek, T.J., Connie, and John,” said Mark Rooks, VP of creative and entertainment at DICK’S Sporting Goods. “All five of them really brought their A-game and filled the set with energy and humor. While we are happy J.J. feels so at home in a DICK’S Sporting Goods, we will have to gently remind him of our closing time.”

The new campaign will run across broadcast, digital, social, and streaming services.