When two icons collide, things get creamy, caramelly, and delightfully chaotic. Kahlúa and Dunkin’ serve up a swirl of humor and heat—starring the ever-glamorous Salma Hayek Pinault.
There’s drama—and then there’s Kahlunkin’ drama. Academy Award–nominated actress and producer Salma Hayek Pinault is back, bottle in hand, bringing her signature fire to the newest campaign from the world’s #1 coffee liqueur, Kahlúa, this time with a caramel twist.
The “It’s Kahlunkin’” campaign, directed by Rodrigo Valdes and created by Wieden + Kennedy London, finds Salma turning an ordinary lounge scene into a telenovela-level spectacle. A mysterious creamy liquid gets poured, doors fly open, and Salma bursts in like a caffeine-fueled storm goddess to declare—it’s not Kahlúa! Moments later, the real culprit is revealed: someone in a Dunkin’ coffee cup costume. The drink? Neither Kahlúa nor Dunkin’—it’s Kahlunkin’, a blend of both worlds and a flavor mash-up that’s as extra as the campaign itself.
The partnership celebrates Kahlúa Dunkin’ Caramel Swirl Cream Liqueur, a smooth fusion of Kahlúa’s coffee and rum with Dunkin’s beloved Caramel Swirl and real cream. It’s indulgent, unexpected, and just a little bit wild—exactly how Salma likes it.
“It was such a joy to celebrate moments of connection with Kahlúa once again, plus a wink of Dunkin’ humor along the way,” said Hayek Pinault. “I think people will feel the energy and playfulness we felt while shooting.”
The campaign’s rollout matches the vibe: bold, fun, and everywhere. Fans can tune in to Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live on October 23 to catch “Who Is In The Cup” make their surprise reveal, or swing by Grand Central Terminal’s Graybar Passage in NYC for a one-day Kahlunkin’ pop-up experience—complete with samples and Dunkin’ MUNCHKINS® pairings.
Behind the cheeky tone, there’s a serious brand power play here. Caroline Begley, VP of Marketing for Kahlúa, calls Salma the brand’s “scene-stealer” who brings glamour and authenticity to everything she touches. And Craig van Niekerk, Kahlúa’s Global VP of Marketing, adds, “With It’s Kahlunkin’, we’re stirring up the cream liqueur category with a splash of drama and a whole lot of playfulness. Partnering with Dunkin’ was the perfect match.”
Whether you sip it neat, chilled, or over ice with a MUNCHKINS® garnish, Kahlunkin’ promises a little extra flair with every pour. Just remember—drink responsibly, and keep guessing: Who. Is. In. The. Cup?
Retired U.S. Army Combat Veteran | NAHJ Member | Writer | Cultural Advocate
I’m Daniel Crespo-Montero Sr., although many know me as El Indio Gordo. I’m the Managing Editor of OMG Magazine, a retired U.S. Army combat veteran, a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), and a writer with a passion for culture, community, and storytelling.
My journey hasn’t exactly followed a traditional path, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I spent more than three decades in the U.S. Army, working in military law enforcement, paralegal services, and human resources. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Spanish and an Associate degree in Small Business Entrepreneurship. Those experiences have shaped how I understand people, leadership, and the world around me.
As a proud Boricua with Indigenous Taíno roots, cultural preservation is especially important to me. Within the Higuayagua Taíno community, I’ve served in several leadership roles and currently serve as Pennsylvania’s Regional Kasike and Bahari for Atunwa.
My community involvement has also included serving as a New York City Ambassador for the National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce. I’m also a former Boy Scout and proud Scout dad.
As Managing Editor, I enjoy exploring entertainment, lifestyle, food and beverages, travel, business, and culture. I believe journalism should inform, entertain, challenge perspectives, and give a voice to stories that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Beyond the magazine, I’m a father, grandfather, cultural advocate, and independent writer who enjoys sharing observations, experiences, and occasionally a little humor.
I certainly don’t know everything, but I’m always willing to learn something new. And if something catches my attention, chances are I’ll have a few words to share about it.
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