McDonald’s has found itself at the center of online criticism after releasing − and quickly removing − an AI-generated holiday commercial that many viewers labeled as “AI slop.”
The 45-second ad, posted by McDonald’s Netherlands on Dec. 6, was titled “It’s the Most Terrible Time of the Year.” Instead of warm holiday cheer, it showed chaotic Christmas mishaps — from gifts being crushed to trees falling over — before people escape to a McDonald’s restaurant for comfort.
But the internet wasn’t loving it.
Why the Internet Hated the Ad
Viewers across YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram blasted the commercial for:
1. Low-quality AI visuals
People pointed out:
- Unnatural movements
- Broken physics
- Rapid cuts hiding inconsistencies
- Faces and scenes that looked “uncanny”
Many called it classic “AI slop” — a term used for low-effort AI-generated content.
2. A depressing storyline
Critics argued the message implied people should spend Christmas alone at McDonald’s.
Comments included:
- “I don’t think anything is more depressing than eating at McDonald’s by yourself on Christmas.”
- “Most people like Christmas. Nobody wants negative vibes.”
Another user joked:
- “I’m going to start going to McDonald’s just so I can stop going to McDonald’s because of this ad.”
McDonald’s Responds
On Dec. 11, McDonald’s Netherlands released a statement saying they removed the ad:
“We recognize that for many of our guests, the season is the most wonderful time of the year. We remain committed to offering Good Times and Good Food for everyone.”
Production Company Defends the Work
The commercial was created by TBWA\Neboko and The Sweetshop.
The Sweetshop initially defended the project in a statement (later deleted), saying:
- They worked for seven weeks
- They created “thousands of takes”
- They treated it like a real film production, not an AI shortcut
Their CEO insisted:
“AI didn’t make this film. We did.”
But this only fueled more criticism, with users mocking the defense:
- “‘Hardly slept’ sounds like something you say when you’re just typing prompts.”
AI in Ads: Still Growing Despite Backlash
Though this McDonald’s ad received heavy criticism, the trend continues.
- Coca-Cola also used AI for holiday ads this year.
- Its ads sparked similar negativity online.
One user wrote:
- “Nothing says Christmas like ‘dad got fired because AI replaced him to do animation.’”
Despite the backlash, AI usage in global advertising is expected to grow, as brands attempt faster and cheaper production.