AI MEDIA
McDonald’s pulled its AI Christmas ad
McDonald’s has removed a Christmas advert in the Netherlands after viewers criticised its use of generative AI.
The 45-second video, posted on 6 December, used a series of AI-generated clips to show things going wrong during the holidays.
People on social media said the characters looked “creepy” and the editing felt messy, with many pointing out that longer AI clips often distort and need to be stitched together.
The advert was taken down on 9 December.
McDonald’s Netherlands said the reaction was “an important learning” as it continues to test how AI fits into its marketing.
The ad was made by TBWA\NEBOKO and US production company The Sweetshop, who defended the work, saying it took seven weeks, thousands of takes, and was treated like any other film project.
The backlash comes as more brands experiment with AI-made Christmas campaigns.
Here’s what you should know:
More brands are trying Gen AI in seasonal adverts, but reactions vary widely.
McDonald’s pulled its ad after complaints about quality and concerns about creative jobs.
The debate reflects both the speed of AI production and questions about authenticity and craft.
Seven weeks for this?
Coca-Cola’s latest AI festive advert has been received more positively, with analytics firm Social Sprout rating online sentiment at 61% positive.
But other companies, including Valentino, have been criticised for adverts some viewers see as low-effort or overly reliant on AI.
AI ads are either Coca-Cola-level wholesome or “please turn that thing off.” No in-between. - MG