What commercial is Peter Hermann in?
— Discovering the face behind America’s Persil ProClean campaign
(By Carmichael Phillip)
Introduction
Peter Hermann is widely recognized as the polished spokesman in Persil ProClean commercials, where he portrays “The Professional.” Since Persil’s U.S. debut, Hermann has been the on-screen face demonstrating the detergent’s stain-fighting power with calm flair and authoritative charm.
Who Is Peter Hermann?
Peter Hermann (born August 15, 1967 in New York City) is an American actor known for roles on Younger, Law & Order: SVU, and Blue Bloods. Fluent in English and German, Hermann has cultivated a reputation for intelligence, composure, and credibility—traits that align well with Persil’s premium image.
The Persil ProClean Campaign: “The Professional”
Hermann stars as “The Professional,” a suave, mission-oriented character who tackles stubborn stains with Persil. Campaigns are styled like mini spy films, combining polished visuals with clear messaging about the detergent’s deep-clean power.
Iconic Ads Featuring Hermann
“The Chase”: A rooftop pursuit in a Bond-inspired setting during the Oscars, where Hermann chases someone not for diamonds—but for the stain on her jacket—showcasing Persil’s effectiveness.
Persil ProClean TV Spot, ‘The Chase’ Featuring Peter Hermann
“Science of Clean: 10 Dimensions” (2017): Hermann teams up with Bill Nye in a lab-themed spot highlighting Persil’s PRO10 formula rescuing Bill’s lab coat.
“Working Hard” TV Spot (2018): Hermann leads lab scientists in a spin class to test odor-fighting power in Persil 2‑in‑1 Odor Fighter. Fun, energetic, and memorable.
Other Ads: Hermann has been featured in multiple perspectives—Super Bowl spots, product comparisons, Spanish-language versions—solidifying his long-term association with the brand.
Why Was Peter Hermann Cast?
Hermann brings a unique blend of sophistication, trustworthiness, and professional polish that positions Persil as a high-end choice. His delivery feels informative rather than salesy—more expert than advertiser, which has helped Persil stand out in a saturated market.
Public Response & Brand Impact
Audiences respond positively to Hermann’s “dad charm” and understated confidence; many admit they tried Persil because of his presence. The campaign’s consistent, sleek aesthetic aligns with Persil’s positioning and has helped elevate brand awareness and market share in the
Hermann’s Other Work
Outside commercials, Hermann is known for:
Law & Order: SVU—as defense attorney Trevor Langan (recurring since 2002)
Blue Bloods—portraying Jack Boyle, Erin Reagan’s ex-husband
Younger—as Charles Brooks, a leading role from 2015 to 2021
Additionally, he is a published children’s author (If the S in Moose Comes Loose) and married to actress Mariska Hargitay.
What Makes the Ads Effective?
The Persil ads succeed because they rely on subtlety and substance over flash:
Consistent Messaging: Hermann has remained the face of Persil since its U.S. launch.
Credibility & Calm Authority: Hermann’s delivery feels reassuring and professional.
Clear Value Proposition: Ads highlight product performance with visuals and comparisons, but without gimmicks.
Emotional Rapport: Viewers feel informed rather than persuaded, creating trust and memorability.
Legacy & Cultural Recognition
Peter Hermann’s portrayal of “The Professional” has become a staple in detergent advertising. Through numerous commercials, including high-profile Super Bowl spots, he has helped Persil establish a credible, premium image in America’s laundry market. His image resonates with both TV drama fans and everyday consumers.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “What commercial is Peter Hermann in?”, the answer is clear: he is the face of the Persil ProClean campaign in the United States. Known as “The Professional,” Hermann’s calm confidence and polished presence elevate Persil’s message—a deep clean backed by authority. His consistent portrayal across multiple ads, dramatic (but relatable) visuals, and straightforward narrative style have made him one of today’s most recognizable faces in household product advertising.
His involvement goes beyond mere product endorsement—Hermann infuses the campaign with a sense of trust, sophistication, and reliable performance. From Bond-style rooftop chases to lab-coat experiments with Bill Nye, he consistently brings Persil’s capabilities into sharp focus.