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)
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Who is the That’s How You Kohl’s actress?
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.