The Kansas City Chiefs star features his fluffy Samoyed alongside celebrities in a stylish New York City ad
Category: Arts & Culture
Travis Kelce has officially introduced his new canine companion, Wendy, in a stylish new campaign for Tommy Hilfiger. The Kansas City Chiefs tight end, 36, filmed the Fall 2026 advertisement at New York City’s iconic Plaza Hotel, where he mingled with a host of celebrities including Gigi Hadid, Frances Tiafoe, and Carmelo Anthony. This marks the first public appearance of Kelce’s fluffy white Samoyed.
In a two-minute video released on September 1, 2026, Kelce showcases his new pet, who has quickly become a beloved addition to his and Taylor Swift’s household. The couple now has four pets in total, including Swift's three cats: Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson, and Benjamin Button. The campaign features Ace Frehley’s famous cover of "New York Groove," providing a fitting soundtrack to the vibrant New York setting.
Kelce expressed excitement about the campaign, stating, "Tommy brought us into his world at The Plaza for this, and it doesn’t get more classic New York than that. There’s a magic to this city, and I love that you never know who or what’s around the corner. We had a blast tapping into that unique energy with a cast who truly embody the vibes that make this city so special." His enthusiasm was evident as he interacted with Wendy, who appears to steal the spotlight throughout the ad.
Wendy's debut comes after rumors circulated earlier in 2026 that Kelce had adopted a dog ahead of his wedding to Swift, which took place on July 3, 2026. Footage shared on social media appeared to show a similar fluffy white dog exiting one of Swift’s vehicles, fueling speculation about the couple’s new pet. Kelce confirmed that Wendy was the perfect choice for the campaign, saying, "We figured, why not her? She crushed it, and actually really fit into that Tommy aesthetic, too. Those are some of my favorite shots."
In the video, Kelce is seen arriving at the Plaza Hotel, fist-bumping the doorman and meeting various friends before retreating to his room for some quiet time with Wendy. The ad captures heartwarming moments of the pair cuddling on a white couch, highlighting their bond. Kelce's affection for his dog is clear as he beams, "Are you kidding me? She lights up my day."
The inclusion of Wendy in this high-profile campaign reflects Kelce’s growing presence in both sports and fashion. Known for his charismatic personality, he has become a popular figure in pop culture, particularly after his relationship with Swift became public in late 2023. Their marriage has only added to their appeal as a couple, drawing attention from fans and media alike.
Kelce’s collaboration with Tommy Hilfiger coincides with the upcoming 2026-27 NFL season, where he aims to lead the Chiefs to another successful year. He has already secured Super Bowl victories in 2020, 2023, and 2024, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top tight ends. As he prepares for the Chiefs’ first regular-season game against the Denver Broncos on September 14, he is also set to launch the fifth season of his podcast, New Heights, which he co-hosts with his brother Jason Kelce.
The ad campaign, titled "Only in New York," showcases Kelce and Wendy and a mix of fashion and sports icons, creating a lively atmosphere that resonates with the energy of the city. The Plaza Hotel, a historic landmark, serves as the perfect backdrop for this fashionable gathering, emphasizing the blend of style and celebrity.
In addition to his on-field accomplishments, Kelce has made a name for himself in the fashion world, often seen sporting bold outfits and unique styles. He has previously expressed his admiration for Tommy Hilfiger’s designs, recalling how he once asked his mother for one of the brand’s sailing gear jackets during his teenage years. Kelce described the experience of working with Hilfiger as surreal, noting, "They had so much personality. And I loved his sportswear. It’s pretty surreal to come full circle and now be working with the man himself."
As the couple navigates their busy lives, the addition of Wendy to their family adds a new dynamic. Swift, who is known for her love of animals, has three cats that have previously enjoyed their moments in the spotlight. The cats—Meredith, Olivia, and Benjamin—have been featured in various media, including commercials and magazine covers. Wendy's introduction into the mix is likely to create even more adorable moments for fans to enjoy.
Meanwhile, Kelce’s focus remains on football as he gears up for the season. With the Chiefs’ first game approaching, he is dedicated to his training and performance, looking to maintain the high standard he has set for himself over the years. The excitement surrounding the upcoming NFL season, combined with his growing fame in the fashion industry, positions Kelce as a complex star.
As the campaign continues to generate buzz, fans can look forward to seeing more of Wendy, who has already captured hearts with her charming personality. The future looks bright for both Kelce and Swift, who are thriving in their respective careers and embracing their roles as pet owners. With the NFL season just around the corner, Kelce is ready to take on new challenges, both on and off the field.