A Nostalgic Reunion: Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan Star in Hellmann’s Super Bowl Commercial
After 35 years, the iconic duo Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan have reunited, and the occasion is nothing short of magical. The pair, who captured hearts in the 1989 classic When Harry Met Sally, has come together once again for a new Hellmann’s mayonnaise commercial set to air during the Super Bowl on February 9. The ad is a heartfelt nod to their timeless chemistry and the beloved film that cemented their places in cinematic history. This time, they’re back at Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City, the very same location where one of the movie’s most memorable scenes unfolded.
The commercial kicks off with Crystal and Ryan sitting at Katz’s, revisiting the iconic setting where their characters, Harry and Sally, shared one of the most talked-about moments in movie history. Crystal breaks the ice with a playful reference to their past, saying, “I can’t believe they let us back in this place.” Ryan, ever the straight shooter, responds with a shrug and a laugh, “Nobody remembers that,” brushing off the nod to their infamous deli scene. The exchange is quintessential Harry and Sally—witty, charming, and effortlessly natural.
As the story unfolds, the duo dives into their sandwiches, but Ryan quickly expresses her dissatisfaction with her meal. Enter Hellmann’s mayonnaise—the hero of the ad. When she adds a generous spread to her sandwich, her reaction is instantaneous and familiar. channeling her iconic, over-the-top enthusiasm from the original film, she declares her newfound delight, much to Crystal’s annoyance. “Here we go,” he mutters, exasperated but amused. The scene is a masterful blend of nostalgia and humor, with Ryan’s character delivering a performance that feels both vintage and fresh.
The commercial takes an unexpected turn when Sydney Sweeney, sitting nearby, delivers the now-iconic line, “I’ll have what she’s having.” This line, originally spoken by Estelle Reiner (the mother of the film’s director, Rob Reiner), has become synonymous with the movie’s enduring legacy. Sweeney’s deadpan delivery brings a modern twist to the classic moment, bridging generations of fans and proving that some jokes truly stand the test of time.
Behind the scenes, the commercial was directed by Jake Szymanski, a comedic genius known for his work on Saturday Night Live and Funny or Die. Szymanski revealed that this was the first time Crystal and Ryan had returned to Katz’s since filming the original scene, making the reunion all the more special. “When you have good performers, you let them perform in a way that feels special,” he said, emphasizing the importance of allowing Crystal and Ryan to shine. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the director’s approach ensures that the ad feels like a genuine extension of the original film’s spirit.
To celebrate this momentous occasion, Hellmann’s has also partnered with Katz’s Deli to launch the “What She’s Having” Sandwich Package. Available for nationwide delivery, the bundle includes all the ingredients needed to recreate Ryan’s signature sandwich, complete with Hellmann’s mayonnaise, as well as Crystal’s pastrami on rye. Priced at $120 with free shipping, the package feeds four to six people and is a perfect way for fans to bring a slice of movie magic into their homes.
This Super Bowl commercial is more than just an ad—it’s a love letter to When Harry Met Sally and the enduring impact it’s had on pop culture. By bringing back Crystal and Ryan, Hellmann’s has tapped into a deep well of nostalgia, reminding audiences why their chemistry remains unmatched. The ad is a testament to the power of storytelling, proving that even after 35 years, Harry and Sally still have a lot to say. And as for audiences? They’ll be left feeling grateful for this delicious dose of nostalgia and, of course, craving a sandwich with Hellmann’s mayonnaise.
