With the holiday countdown quickening, the Walmart Deals of Desire campaign brings some levity to the spirited season. For Ian Somerhalder, stepping into the commercial spotlight celebrates more than just the drama of finding that epic deal.
Many people see Ian Somerhalder and swoon. While his time on Vampire Diaries brought him legions of fans, the talented entertainer is more than just the shadowy figure who may have devious ways.
Even though he has stepped away from the camera lens, Somerhalder could not resist this opportunity to join the Walmart Deals of Desire campaign. When asked about the opportunity, he shared, “Walmart went above and beyond to weave this genre into the holiday season. There is drama in finding the best deal, but it is not the run of the mill holiday blast.”
“These characters mean a lot to people and we (actors) worked really hard on those roles for many years. These trusted characters made us feel really great in our living rooms or made us cry. Damon was a questionable person, but he always made you feel good about something in life.”
That authenticity drew Somerhalder to the campaign. Through his whiskey company, Brothers Bond Bourbon, he is a Walmart partner. Extending his connection to the brand through this experience heightened his appreciation for the Walmart family.
Even though the Deals of Desire campaign is about Black Friday, the underlying idea is about the holiday season. When asked his opinion about the holidays and connecting with people, Somerhalder said, “experience bonds people. Weaving the thread of these deals into the life of making fun of these awesome genres and characters has everyone loving the story. That sense of nostalgic shared experience makes you remember those special moments.”
“It is a cohesive way to tie all those elements together in a seamless way. I’ve never seen it done before which was a big draw. Vampire shoots at night, as a dad, are very different.”
Although those long shoots might be a different, Somerhalder wanted to explore his partnership with Walmart because he appreciates the community the brand has created. He explained, “I have a lot of family that are down the road from Bentonville (Arkansas). These stores are giant community centers. It is the place they shop to get the items to raise their families.”
“I’ve been to hundreds of Walmarts around the country. As I talk to customers and sign bottles, it becomes a bonding over the shared experience. Sure, people wonder what is Damon Salvatore doing in my local Walmart. That combination of nostalgia and community is amazing.”
“With the Deals of Desire, it is that fun play that people want to see during the holiday season. There is drama in finding the deal.” It might not be quite as cutting as a vampire drama, but it has its own version of holiday intrigue.
Although some people might focus on finding the perfect present to wrap, Somerhalder hopes people will give others a different gift, the gift of time. When asked about his focus this holiday season, he was clear. It is about spending time together.
“Time with family, seeing people, and being excited about coming together is important. Holidays are about creating core memories. Whether you are 7 or 17, those family experiences carry you through. I cherish each and every memory.”
As Somerhalder reminisced about his childhood holidays, he remembered unwrapping his first archery set from Walmart, enjoying the outdoors, and family time at holidays. While the Bayou might not necessarily be the white Christmas seen on television, he appreciated the Louisiana food that covered the table and the family togetherness that filled the day.
Did Walmart Deals of Desire open the door to Ian Somerhalder stepping back in front of the camera? He did not shut down the idea completed. While he now has the rights to a beloved story, he is not jumping into the fray. Basically, the possibility could happen, but not anytime in the near future.
What does Ian Somerhalder wish his fans for the holiday season. He encourages everyone to enjoy that time together and celebrate the moment.
His sentiment was simple, yet profound. He said, “I always say stay safe. Stay sane. Stay healthy. Stay happy.”
Whether people satisfy those Walmart Deals of Desire, celebrate the season with family, or enjoy the holidays with another tradition, do not let that time slip away.