The Super Bowl is not just the biggest day in American football; it's the biggest day in advertising. And every year, certain commercials break through the noise to become part of the cultural conversation. For Super Bowl LX in 2026, one of those spots was undoubtedly Dunkin's highly anticipated sequel, "The DunKings Return."
Building on the viral success of their 2024 campaign featuring Ben Affleck, the new ad brought back the hilarious, music-making "boy band" for another round of caffeinated antics. But this time, they had a new, scene-stealing member. If you've been searching for the name of the brilliant actress who held her own against a Hollywood A-lister, you're in the right place.
The breakout star of Dunkin' Super Bowl 2026 commercial is the incredibly talented Ayo Edebiri.
Who is Ayo Edebiri?
Ayo Edebiri is an actress, comedian, writer, and producer who has rapidly become one of the most beloved and in-demand voices in entertainment. While she may be new to some Super Bowl viewers, for those who follow television and comedy, her rise has been nothing short of meteoric.
She is best known for her starring role as Sydney Adamu in the hit FX series "The Bear." In this intense and critically acclaimed dramedy, Edebiri plays a young, ambitious chef who joins forces with a troubled culinary genius to transform a gritty Chicago sandwich shop. Her performance is a masterclass in balance—she's fiercely determined, vulnerable, and effortlessly funny, often all in the same scene. This role has earned her numerous awards, including a Golden Globe, a Primetime Emmy, and a Screen Actors Guild Award, cementing her status as a generational talent.
But Edebiri's path to stardom is rooted in comedy. She started in the New York City improv and sketch comedy scene, working with groups like the Upright Citizens Brigade. This background is the secret sauce to her success. It gives her impeccable timing, a sharp wit, and the ability to make any line—even one about coffee—feel completely fresh and spontaneous.
To see her comedic genius in action, check out her work here:
Ayo Edebiri on Saturday Night Live:
(Her monologue and sketches are a perfect showcase of her range.)
Watch YouTube video
Ayo Edebiri's Role in "The DunKings Return"
In the 2026 Dunkin' Super Bowl commercial, Ayo Edebiri joins the ranks of the "DunKings," the fictional boy band fronted by a surprisingly committed Ben Affleck. While the original ad focused on Affleck's deadpan commitment to the bit and his famous friends (like Matt Damon and Tom Brady) mocking him, the sequel expands the world.
According to the commercial's premise, Edebiri plays a new, pivotal role. While the exact plot details are best enjoyed by watching the ad itself, her character serves as a brilliant comedic foil. Where Ben Affleck's DunKing is overly earnest and completely absorbed in the bit, Edebiri brings a sharp, grounded, and utterly hilarious perspective. She’s the one who seems to see the absurdity of the entire situation, reacting with a side-eye or a deadpan line that cuts through the chaos. Her presence elevates the sketch, turning it from a simple celebrity cameo-fest into a genuinely funny comedic scene with perfect timing.
The casting is a testament to Dunkin's smart marketing. By bringing in Ayo Edebiri, they tapped into a younger, culturally-savvy audience that adores her work in "The Bear" and beyond. She represents cool, effortless humor, and her involvement signals that Dunkin' is in on the joke.
Why She Was the Perfect Choice
You might wonder: why would an award-winning actress known for her work in a critically acclaimed drama say yes to a coffee commercial? The answer lies in the quality of the concept and the cultural cachet of the project.
Comedic Pedigree: As mentioned, Edebiri's roots are in comedy. A well-written, funny Super Bowl spot is a dream project for someone with her background. It's a chance to reach a massive audience and just be purely, unapologetically funny.
Boston Connections: For anyone familiar with "The Bear," the connection to Dunkin' is perfect. Her character, Sydney, is a chef in Chicago, but the show's intense, working-class ethos is a spiritual cousin to Dunkin's own blue-collar, Boston-bred identity. Edebiri, who was born in Boston, brings an authentic, hometown energy to the ad. It feels less like a paid endorsement and more like a local legend coming home to joke around with friends.
Cultural Relevance: In 2026, Ayo Edebiri is at the peak of her cultural relevance. She's a critical darling, a fashion icon, and a beloved internet personality all rolled into one. For Dunkin', associating their brand with her star power is a massive win. It signals that they are current, in tune with pop culture, and not afraid to be a little weird.
Where to Watch the Full Commercial
The best way to appreciate Ayo Edebiri's performance is to see the commercial in its full glory. While it aired during the Super Bowl, you can easily find it online.
You can watch the Dunkin' "The DunKings Return" commercial here:
Compilation of 2026 Super Bowl Ads:
Watch YouTube video
This compilation video features all the biggest and best ads from Super Bowl LX. You'll be able to see how Dunkin's spot, powered by Edebiri's brilliant comedic timing, stacks up against the competition from other major brands like Pringles, Budweiser, and Nike.
Beyond the Super Bowl: What's Next for Ayo Edebiri?
If the Dunkin' commercial was your introduction to Ayo Edebiri, consider this your starting point for exploring the work of one of the most exciting artists working today.
Beyond her iconic role in "The Bear," she has lent her distinctive voice to animated hits like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. She's also a talented writer and producer, working behind the scenes on projects that highlight new and diverse voices. Her future is incredibly bright, with major film and television projects undoubtedly on the horizon.
Conclusion: A Star-Making Turn in 30 Seconds
Ayo Edebiri's appearance in the Dunkin' Super Bowl 2026 commercial is a perfect example of what makes the Big Game's ads so special. It's a moment where the worlds of Hollywood, comedy, and advertising collide to create something memorable.
Her performance in "The DunKings Return" is a small but perfect gem—a showcase of the wit, charm, and impeccable timing that have made her a star. So, the next time you see the ad, you'll know exactly who that brilliant actress is. And you'll be able to say you knew her back when she was just one of the DunKings.
Would you like to explore the careers of other actors who got their big break in Super Bowl commercials?
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