Comedian Joe Wilkinson has responded to overwhelming fan demands for a feature-length romantic comedy with Keira Knightley following their heartwarming performance in Waitrose's 2025 Christmas advertisement.
The Unexpected On-Screen Romance
The four-minute festive film, titled The Perfect Gift, features Wilkinson as Phil, a seemingly widowed man who unexpectedly finds love with Knightley playing herself at a cheese counter. The charming storyline begins with Phil telling his friends: 'Shell said the only person I could move on with was Keira Knightley' – a line that sets up the improbable but delightful meeting.
Viewers have been so captivated by their chemistry that many are calling for the short film to be expanded into a full romantic comedy. When Metro asked Wilkinson about this possibility, he responded with characteristic humility: 'I think she might be aiming a bit higher than that in her next career move.'
Working With Hollywood Royalty
Wilkinson couldn't hide his admiration for his co-star, describing Knightley's natural 'magnetism' and 'elegance' on set. He explained the phenomenon of movie stardom in simple terms: 'You know when you go: "Why are some people movie stars and some people not movie stars?" And then you meet them, and you go: "It's obvious why this lady is a movie star."'
The comedian confessed to sometimes feeling 'out of my depth' while working with the Pride and Prejudice star, but praised her down-to-earth nature. 'She's so down to earth, so lovely, and we just chatted about what we're having for tea and stuff,' he revealed, mentioning he was planning leftovers from his Sunday roast that evening.
From Christmas Advert to Netflix Dreams
While a Knightley-Wilkinson rom-com might remain in the realm of fan fantasy, the comedian expressed enthusiasm about potentially joining her in more dramatic territory. When asked about guest-starring in the second series of Knightley's Netflix spy thriller Black Doves, Wilkinson didn't hesitate: 'I'd say, "Talk to my agent." And then tell my agent to say: "Yes, please."'
Wilkinson also admitted his secret love for romantic comedies, confessing: 'I'm a big rom com fan. I'm not meant to be, but I am, absolutely. Hook, line and sinker.' His initial scepticism about the Waitrose storyline – questioning why Knightley's character would be interested in his – was overcome by director Molly Manners' straightforward explanation that simply 'she's just into you.'
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Looking beyond the Christmas season, Wilkinson shared his personal philosophy after turning 50 this year. 'I never really think that far ahead,' he admitted when asked about 2026 plans. 'The one thing I'm thinking about is: "Am I going to enjoy it?" That's my life plan, rather than career plan.'
He elaborated on this mature perspective: 'It's a kind of cliché, but the older you get, you go: "We only have a fleeting time on Earth." And work's amazing and everything – it's nice to do great things, but it's not as important as having experiences and spending time doing things you love with people you love.'
The comedian also touched on his enduring friendship with fellow Celebrity Traitors star Joe Marler, recalling their time on the BBC show as feeling 'like regressing to being like a teenager, being about 15, and just mucking about.' Their bond continues through regular padel matches, though Wilkinson acknowledges 'he can get cross with me' during games.
Waitrose's The Perfect Gift has clearly struck a chord with audiences, blending festive cheer with unexpected romance. While fans might not get their feature-length Wilkinson-Knightley rom-com, the four-minute advertisement has provided enough magic to make this Christmas particularly memorable for British viewers.
