'00s Pop Stars Popped Up In Great Commercials

When my editor asked if I’d have any interest in rounding up and ranking the best commercials from the early ‘00s featuring a celebrity spokesperson, I immediately began foaming at the mouth. (Was I literally-literally or figuratively-literally foaming at the mouth? The world may never know.) That sort of thing is what I live for. Not only am I a sucker for ‘90s/‘00s pop music, but I have a true appreciation for ridiculous commercials. (Some people have fine wine and literature, I have weird advertisements. Just living my truth.) This assignment had me wrapped around its finger.

I set some guidelines for my search:

1. The advertisement had to have aired between the years 2000 and 2005.
2. The advertisement must star a Top 40 pop artist or pop group.
3. The advertisement must make me laugh at least once every time I watch it.

After I rounded up a handful of terrific commercials that satisfied the criteria listed above, it was time: I had to rank the ads. How can I possibly rank these beautiful, perfect advertisements? I wondered. This will be a most grueling task.

I chugged a glass of water, hunkered over my laptop, and gave the list my best shot. I will share my rankings now.

#9: Christina Aguilera for Coca-Cola

It pains me to rank Xtina last. Reason for decision: As fun as it is, there just isn't enough Xtina in this commercial.

#8: Destiny's Child for McDonald's

I love that the ad features the classic DC track "Lose My Breath", but like the Xtina/Coca-Cola ad, this McD's commercial could use more of its spokespeople. NEEDS MORE DESTINY'S CHILD.

#7: Britney Spears and Jeff Gordon for Pepsi

There are a lot of terrific Britney Spears Pepsi commercials to choose from, so why the heck would I pick the one without the crazy costumes, complicated choreography, or elaborate sets? Because every time I watch it, I cackle like a dweeb when Britney rolls out from underneath that car. It's the little moments in life, ya know?

#6: Backstreet Boys for Burger King

Have you ever wanted to see BSB dance and sing about hamburgers while wearing BK uniforms? Well, have I got the ad for you!

#5: Hilary Duff and Haylie Duff for Ice Breakers Liquid Ice

Oh god. Remember Liquid Ice? I don't know how those didn't catch on. Who doesn't want to freshen their breath with a mint syrup-filled tapioca ball?

#4: Mandy Moore and Michael Strahan for Campbell's

Not only do we have the beautiful and charming Mandy Moore, but we also have Michael Strahan. I LOVE MICHAEL STRAHAN. He is theeeee best.

#3: Jessica Simpson and Ashlee Simpson for Ice Breakers Liquid Ice

Jessica Simpson's duck face during the massage table scene is exquisite.

#2: 98 Degrees for Herbal Essences

98 Degrees pops out of a poster, washes a woman's hair, and sings about Herbal Essences shampoo. This ad truly is something special.

#1: 'N Sync for Chili's

Just how weird is this ad? Well, while the guys of 'N Sync harmonize about Chili's Baby Back Ribs and stumble around a deserted island, a crate falls from an airplane and crushes Joey Fatone. This was the clear number one.