Christmas ad goes viral for melting viewers’ hearts

It’s a coveted title every year but 2020’s best Christmas ad might have found its winner after the European pharmaceutical company DocMorris released its tear-jerking ad about a weight-lifting grandfather.

The two-minute clip follows the older gent, who appears to be isolated in his home, as he starts his slow fitness journey armed with nothing but a kettle bell. The audience watches as the man struggles in the beginning to lift the kettle bell before becoming stronger, all with the help of a mystery photo frame that he sits in front of him for motivation.

Eventually, after months of preparation and improvement, the old man heads to his family’s home for Christmas dinner, donning a smart suit complete with a bow tie. And here is where even the iciest of hearts start to melt, as the grandfather is met with his gorgeous little granddaughter, who he is finally strong enough to lift to the top of the tree so she can put on the star.

The short but powerful video then finishes with the slogan (written in German) saying: “So that you can take care of what really matters in life.”

The emotional ad from DocMorris went viral after being posted at the end of November, with the video already gaining more than seven million views on YouTube and plenty more across all social media platforms.

Viewers found themselves holding back tears while watching it, with many labelling it the best Christmas ad of the year. One commenter wrote, “Oh my God. My heart just melted. A truly beautiful commercial. I’d call it a short film. Should be a classic – aired every year.” While another said, “So sweet. Shows we’ll do anything we can for our precious grandchildren.”

Meanwhile, others related the situation to their own, with one saying, “Well, I’m crying. I lost both my grandpas within six months of each other this year and this holiday season is already tough. Beautiful commercial.” While another agreed, saying, “Whew! This made me cry. Getting older hurts. The lack of being able to go and do the things we used to hurts even more.”

Under the video on YouTube, DocMorris sent their well wishes to viewers writing, “This year the best gift of all is that we are fine and healthy. That is why your health is also a matter close to our heart. So that you can take care of what really matters in life, especially at Christmas: to spend a carefree time with your family and loved ones. DocMorris wishes you and all your relatives a happy and unforgettable celebration. Stay healthy!”

While the sweet ad has touched viewers around the world, usually it’s the iconic John Lewis ads that take the top spot. Last year, the British department store released their highly-anticipated Christmas ad, which followed a little girl and her friendship with an excitable dragon, who almost ruins Christmas with his fire-breathing outbursts before saving it all in the end.

The video warmed hearts everywhere, with one fan saying, “What an important and beautiful Christmas message. Everyone is important, everyone has something special they can do, it’s just about having someone believe and support them along the way to find what that is. Well done John Lewis.”