Who is the girl in the new Kohl’s commercial?
A close-up on the face behind the friendly shopping assistant everyone’s been talking about…
(By Carmichael Phillip)
Kohl’s viewers across the country have been asking: who is that relatable, effervescent woman helping shoppers rock their outfits while cracking jokes? The answer: Emmy‑nominated actress Ellie Kemper, stepping in as Kohl’s official “Mom” for spring and summer 2025. Let’s unpack the star, the campaign, and show you the videos making waves.
_Introducing Ellie Kemper: Kohl’s Mom
Ellie Kemper, best known for roles in The Office (as Erin) and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, brings a dash of heartfelt humor to Kohl’s latest marketing push. Dubbed “Kohl’s Mom,” Kemper pops up in-store to sprinkle shoppers with confidence boosts like, “You look ready for the red carpet!” — all with a knowing smile and twinkle in her eye.
_Campaign Feeling: Real, Relatable, Funny
Rather than a stiff, sales‑y infomercial, the ads feel like a friend offering style advice. In one gag‑wrapped clip, she helps a customer test flexible white pants — complete with a triumphant, high‑kick red‑carpet pose .
Ellie shares in People that this is “basically a Kohl’s mom in real life,” needing no acting — she just brings genuine love for family and style.
_Spotlight on the TV Ads
These commercials air on TV, social media, and the Kohl’s app — giving viewers a fresh take on department‑store shopping. The friendly vibe comes through in lines like:
“You look like you’re ready to walk the red carpet”
“You’re never too much”
And yes, she busts a few dance moves, too.
Watch as she assists shoppers with charm and humor, giving Kohl’s a delightful personality makeover.
_A Mom Who Walks the Talk
Ellie is a real mom of two boys — James (8) and Matthew (5) — and she sees the role as fitting her to a tee. She values comfort: athleticwear, loafers you can chase kids in, and pieces from LC Lauren Conrad, Levi’s, and Nine West — all highlighted in the campaign.
Her personal philosophy on style? Comfort first, yes, but never at the expense of looking great — especially for on‑the‑go parents .
_Behind‑the‑Scenes: Shopping at Night
In interviews, Ellie recalls filming after-hours in a real Kohl’s store with the energy of a late-night slumber party — bursting with camaraderie, joy, and a few dance breaks.
_Why This Campaign Works
Authenticity sells
Ellie isn’t just acting; she’s living her every day — moms connect to that.
Humor & warmth over hard selling
These spots don’t feel pushy — they feel supportive, fun, real.
Clothes for real life
The campaign matches the products — stretchy, wearable, affordable — making it easier to shop.
Storytelling that sees us
Moms express feeling seen; one active voice online said, “I cried the first time I saw it — no one tells moms they’re doing great. Kohl’s did”.
_Reddit’s Take (With Taste)
Some viewers aren’t fans. On Reddit’s r/CommercialsIHate, one user teased:
“The lovely and talented actress Ellie Kemper is getting on my nerves with these terrible commercials.”
Others find her outfit or catchphrases grating — but even critics admit, “She’s rather cute, so the commercials get a pass”.
That mix of love-hate shows she’s making an impact — always better than blending into background.
_How the Campaign Compares to Past Stars
Kohl’s has tapped others before: Lea Michele and Sarah Hyland fronted “When Life Gets Real, Start Here” in 2024
people.com
. But this season, Ellie’s “Kohl’s Mom” vibe brings more personality — charm meets comedy with mom‑energy.
_Final Take: The Face of Kohl’s 2025
Kohl’s chose right with Ellie Kemper. She humanizes shopping, turning aisles into friendly spaces and outfits into stories. Audiences see themselves, laugh, and — importantly — shop.
If you were Googling “who is that girl in the Kohl’s commercial?” — now you know. And if you haven’t laughed at a “That’s how you Kohl’s” wink yet, you will.
Acting Magazine Newsletters
Never miss out on the best from Acting Magazine.