The Man Behind 'Kris K.': Everything You Need To Know About Brent Bailey, The Viral Target Actor

The actor known as "Kris K." from the viral Target holiday commercials is Brent Bailey, and the internet's obsession with him shows no signs of slowing down. The retail giant's decision to cast the handsome, charismatic actor as a modern, "weirdly hot" version of Kris Kringle—a Target team member named Kris K.—was a marketing masterstroke that captivated millions of shoppers and ignited a social media frenzy. As of December 10, 2025, the campaign's continued success has cemented Bailey's status as a breakout commercial star, prompting fans to dig deeper into his extensive acting career.

This deep dive into the man behind the red vest reveals that Brent Bailey is far more than just a viral commercial star. The Tucson, Arizona native is a seasoned actor, director, producer, and screenwriter with a long list of credits across film and television, including major roles on popular network shows and streaming hits. His recent return to the campaign for the holidays has only amplified the public's curiosity about his professional and personal life.

Brent Bailey: The Full Biography and Filmography of 'Kris K.'

Before becoming the face of Target’s holiday cheer, Brent Bailey built a robust career in Hollywood, demonstrating versatility both in front of and behind the camera. Born in Tucson, Arizona, he is an American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter.

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His professional journey began with roles in national commercials, short films, and music videos, leading to his first network television role in 2007.

Here is a detailed look at the man who plays the beloved Target employee, Kris Kringle, aka "Kris K.":

• Full Name: Brent Bailey
• Occupation: Actor, Director, Producer, Screenwriter
• Birthplace: Tucson, Arizona, USA
• Breakout Commercial Role: Kris Kringle (Kris K.) in the Target holiday marketing campaign (debuted in 2024, returned in 2025)
• Notable Film Roles:
  • The Idea of You (2024)
  • Going Down in La-la-land
  • Crimson Winter
  • Republic of Two
• Notable Television Roles:
  • The Lincoln Lawyer
  • Walker
  • NCIS
  • Lucifer
  • Think Like a Man
  • Criminal Minds
  • Rizzoli & Isles
  • Life (NBC, 2007)
• Other Credits: He is also credited as a writer, executive producer, and action team member on various projects.

The Viral Phenomenon: Why Target's 'Kris K.' Became 'Hot Santa'

The "Kris K." character was an immediate and unexpected sensation. Target, working with the agency Mythology, introduced the character in their 2024 holiday campaign, and the response was overwhelmingly positive, quickly earning him the nickname "Hot Santa" or "Sexy Santa" across social media.

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The campaign's success was rooted in its clever modernization of the classic Santa Claus figure. Instead of a jolly, bearded man, Target presented Kris Kringle as a charismatic, fit Target employee whose nametag simply reads "Kris K."

The first 30-second ad, titled “Born to Be Kris,” showed the character pulling up to a Target store in his truck, checking his reflection in the side mirror, and straightening his signature red Target pullover and nametag. This playful, self-aware introduction immediately resonated with viewers, who appreciated the cheeky take on holiday marketing.

The public's intense reaction was fueled by a combination of factors:

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• The Casting: Brent Bailey’s physical appearance and on-screen charisma were central to the character’s appeal.
• The Modern Twist: The concept of a handsome, stylish Target team member being the real Kris Kringle felt fresh and relatable.
• Social Media Buzz: Shoppers quickly began "fawning over" the actor, sharing the ads, and driving the campaign to viral status, which helped push the "Kris K. is Back" campaign for the following holiday season.

From 'The Lincoln Lawyer' to 'Kris K.': Brent Bailey's Diverse Career Path

While the Target commercials have brought Brent Bailey mainstream recognition, his career is marked by a steady stream of roles across different genres. His background as a director and screenwriter adds a layer of depth to his acting, suggesting a comprehensive understanding of storytelling and production.

One of his most-discussed recent projects outside of Target is the Amazon movie The Idea of You, which further showcases his versatility as a performer. His ability to transition seamlessly from dramatic and procedural roles on shows like NCIS, Criminal Minds, and The Lincoln Lawyer to a charming, lighthearted commercial character demonstrates the breadth of his talent.

The Power of a Viral Commercial Role

The role of "Kris K." has provided a significant boost to Bailey’s career visibility. While many actors have commercial roles, few achieve the level of viral fame that Bailey has with the Target campaign. This exposure often leads to new opportunities in film and television, as casting directors and producers take notice of the actor's proven ability to connect with a mass audience.

The retailer’s marketing strategy was not just about selling products; it was about creating a moment of cultural conversation. By bringing back the popular character, Target acknowledged the consumer demand and solidified "Kris K." as a modern holiday icon. The campaign, which includes multiple spots in both English and Spanish, ensures maximum reach across various platforms, including television, social media, and streaming services.

Ultimately, Brent Bailey's success as the "Kris K. Target actor" is a testament to his charisma and the power of smart, modern advertising. He has successfully blended his established acting career with a career-defining commercial role, making him one of the most talked-about faces of the holiday season.