Will Ferrell's Buddy the Elf joins up with ASDA for…

Will Ferrell's Buddy the Elf joins up with ASDA for supermarket's 2022 Christmas ad

Supermarket ASDA has a new recruit for this year's Christmas rush in one of the most loved characters from this century's festive flicks.

The advert, which premiered during Coronation Street on Friday night, uses original footage and iconic lines from the 2003 movie to place the Will Ferrell character at the heart of a busy store during the build-up to his favourite time of year. The advert is set to Santa Claus is Comin' to Town and sees classic film footage merged with newly-filmed scenes, WalesOnline reports.

Viewers see Buddy's wide-eyed wonder and love for all things Christmas as he embarks on his first day as member of the Asda in-store Christmas team. He also marvels at several of Asda's festive products, while distracting colleagues with his yuletide plans and his singing over the store tannoy system.

Sam Dickson, Acting Chief Customer Officer at Asda said: "Like Buddy, we absolutely love Christmas – so we’re thrilled to welcome him to our team. We know this has been a tough year for so many people, which is why we want to create some little moments of joy for families this year with our Christmas campaign, and more importantly, our amazing products.

"We hope that with a little bit of help from Buddy, our joy-filled Christmas offering will create some festive magic and helps give families a Christmas to remember together."

Buddy the Elf tries maple pigs in blankets in Asda's new Christmas ad (Asda)

Viewers took to social media to share their thoughts on the advert, with one Twitter user saying: "Best advert so far this year. I can't stop watching it!"

Another said: "An advert that’ll go down in history! My favourite film."

A third added: "This has got to be the best Christmas advert EVER!!!! Take a bow Asda."

However, not everyone was impressed by the advert, with one user writing: "Hate to say it, but that Asda Buddy The Elf advert is the definition of phoning it in. Thought they might’ve got Will Ferrell back as opposed to superimposing a load of scenes from the original. 2/10, do better."

This year, Asda is collecting toys for children's charities as part of its gift appeal and stores plan to bring festive cheer to customers with local choirs and bands playing throughout December. The retail giant is also introducing initiatives to help those in need this winter, including its cafés providing a £1 meal deal for OAPs, continuing its kids eat for £1 deal, and cost of living grants to support community groups with increased rent and bills.

To watch the ad, visit YouTube or keep your eyes peeled for it on TV in the coming days and weeks

What do you think of Asda's Buddy the Elf Christmas ad? Let us know!

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