Instacart is back at the Super Bowl 2026 with a 30-second musical spectacle that turns banana preferences into disco drama. The spot, titled Bananas, will air during the first quarter in the U.S. and the second quarter in Canada on Sunday, Feb. 8. Directed by Spike Jonze-his first Super Bowl commercial in more than twenty years-the commercial pairs actor Ben Stiller with multi-platinum artist Benson Boone as a retro European disco-pop duo whose partnership unravels mid-performance.
At a Glance
- 30-second spot starring Ben Stiller and Benson Boone
- Airs on Feb. 8 during the first quarter in the U.S.
- Features Instacart’s new Preference Picker tool
- Directed by Spike Jonze, marking his return to the Super Bowl
Super Bowl Spotlight
The 60-foot glittering stage is washed in orange and green LED lights. Stiller and Boone harmonize about choosing the perfect bananas using Instacart’s Preference Picker. What starts as a synchronized duet quickly escalates into a theatrical rivalry, complete with soaring vocals, intricate choreography, and a mid-song back-flip from Boone. Stiller’s character attempts to match the athletic feat, climbing high and belly-flopping onto a drum kit as the music powers on.
Behind the Disco Drama
In an exclusive interview with News Of Los Angeles, Stiller laughed about the absurdity. “Honestly, the banana part made me laugh right away,” Stiller said. “Choosing bananas seemed funny to me. And a song about it seemed ridiculous.” Adding Boone only heightened the comedy. Stiller said the idea of forming a duo with someone “so youthful, naturally talented” and capable of effortless flips created a built-in imbalance that fueled their onscreen rivalry. “Once we committed to the characters, it was fun to go with that,” Stiller said. “He was incredibly open and generous,” Stiller added. “That made it all so fun.”
The Preference Picker Feature
The tagline “Bananas just how you like” plays on Instacart’s in-app tool, which lets customers select banana ripeness from “Not Ripe” to “Ripe.” The ad underscores how the grocery delivery company obsessively cares about small details that matter to shoppers. According to a report from the brand, bananas are the most purchased item on the platform, with more than 1.8 billion delivered to date and the product with the most shopper notes-highlighting the importance of personal grocery preferences.
The Creative Process
Spike Jonze’s influence extends beyond performance. The ad was shot on vintage tube cameras from the ’80s, giving it a tactile, analog feel that heightens the retro disco energy. “A lot of people would shoot digital and then mess it up in post,” Stiller said. “But he went for the real deal, which I love.” The choreography, timing, and crash were meticulously rehearsed to make the chaos feel authentic while remaining safe. “Spike understands how important physical comedy is,” Stiller explained. “He dialed in the stunt so it was so painful. To me that’s what is so funny; it looks so real.”
What the Numbers Say
Instacart is also releasing a longer director’s cut that expands the rivalry into a full narrative arc with more dancing, singing, and escalating tension-including additional failed flips. The extended version gives the characters room to deepen their over-the-top backstory while leaning further into spectacle and absurdity. The spot reflects Instacart’s focus on obsessing over small details that matter to shoppers, and the company is betting that bold, playful storytelling will cut through even during the Super Bowl.
Key Takeaways
- Instacart’s 30-second Bananas spot uses banana preferences as a comedic hook.
- Spike Jonze’s 20-year return to the Super Bowl adds star power and retro authenticity.
- The Preference Picker tool is highlighted as a key feature for personalized grocery choices.
- The ad’s physical comedy was rehearsed for safety while maintaining authenticity.
- A longer director’s cut will expand the story for future viewers.
