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Red Wings Star Larkin Lands Charmin Commercial

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2026/01 .. -wings-star-larkin-lands-charmin-commercial.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Thursday, January 29th 2026 at 14:42 GMT by Detroit Free Press
      Locales: Michigan, Ohio, UNITED STATES

Detroit, MI - January 29th, 2026 - Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin is known for his speed, skill, and leadership on the ice. But this week, the hockey star is making headlines for a decidedly different reason: a starring role in a new Charmin Ultra Soft commercial. The advertisement, which debuted earlier this week, has sparked conversation not just about the brand's messaging, but about the broader trend of athletes crossing over into unexpected advertising territories.

The commercial itself is a playful subversion of expectations. It begins with Larkin in his natural habitat - an ice rink, stick in hand, preparing for a shot. The voiceover expertly sets the stage, highlighting the contrast: "Even the toughest players need a moment to relax." The abrupt cut to Larkin demonstrating the softness of Charmin Ultra Soft is the comedic core of the ad, playfully juxtaposing the rugged intensity of professional hockey with the gentle comfort the brand promotes. Larkin, by all accounts, embraces the absurdity.

"It was definitely a unique experience," Larkin stated in a press release. "I'm used to the ice and the intensity of the game, but this was a fun way to show a different side of myself and connect with people in a new way." The statement highlights a growing trend among athletes - a willingness to engage in endorsements that showcase personality and relatability, rather than solely relying on their athletic achievements.

But the decision to feature Larkin goes beyond simply finding a likeable face. Charmin, like many consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies, is actively seeking ways to break through advertising clutter and reach audiences that may not traditionally engage with toilet paper commercials. The strategy is a calculated risk: leveraging Larkin's popularity - particularly within the passionate Detroit fanbase - to broaden the brand's appeal beyond its core demographic.

"Dylan is an incredible athlete and a fantastic representative of the Detroit community," explained a Charmin spokesperson. "We're thrilled to have him bring his energy and humor to our campaign." This emphasis on community ties is crucial. Local and regional heroes are increasingly valued by brands seeking authentic connections with consumers. Larkin's deep roots in Detroit resonate with a loyal fanbase, instantly adding a layer of trustworthiness to the advertisement.

The choice of Larkin also reflects a subtle but significant shift in advertising strategies. Traditionally, CPG brands have favored celebrity endorsements from actors, musicians, or personalities known for their broad appeal. However, recent data suggests that athletes, particularly those with strong regional ties and relatable personalities, are gaining traction. This is partially due to the increasing fragmentation of media consumption - reaching audiences through traditional channels is becoming more difficult, and consumers are increasingly skeptical of generic celebrity endorsements.

Several marketing analysts predict this trend will continue to accelerate. "We're seeing a move away from 'aspirational' advertising towards 'relatable' advertising," says Dr. Emily Carter, a marketing professor at the University of Michigan. "Consumers want to see themselves in the ads they're watching. An athlete like Larkin, known for his hard work, dedication, and community involvement, is far more relatable than a Hollywood celebrity."

The Charmin commercial featuring Larkin is currently airing on television and streaming platforms, and is already generating significant buzz on social media. Whether this unconventional pairing will translate into increased sales for Charmin remains to be seen. However, it's clear that the company is willing to take risks to capture attention and connect with a new generation of consumers. The intersection of hockey and hygiene might seem unlikely, but in today's advertising landscape, it's a bold and potentially brilliant move.