With over 50 films to his name, a magnetic screen presence, and blockbuster franchises like The Matrix and John Wick under his belt, Keanu Reeves has earned his place as one of the most beloved actors in Hollywood history. But long before he became an action icon, Reeves had a much humbler start—one that involved spandex, a bike, and a bottle of Coke…
Before his big-screen debut in 1986’s Youngblood, where he played a hockey goalie, Reeves appeared in a Coca-Cola commercial titled Coke Is It!
Keanu gets on his bike
In the ad, a young Keanu plays a determined cyclist pushing through a grueling race. Exhausted at the finish line, he’s greeted by his proud father, who hands him an ice-cold bottle of Coca-Cola—a moment of refreshment and connection that captures the brand’s classic message.
It’s a charming piece of advertising history, and a reminder that even global superstars start somewhere. At the time, no one—not even Reeves himself—could have predicted that the fresh-faced kid in the peloton would go on to become a cinematic legend.
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From commercials to cult classics
Beyond his iconic roles as Neo and John Wick, Reeves has delivered memorable performances in films like Bram Stoker’s Dracula, The Devil’s Advocate, and A Scanner Darkly. His versatility, humility, and off-screen kindness have only deepened his global appeal.
And yet, that early Coca-Cola ad remains a fan favorite—a nostalgic glimpse at the early days of a star who would one day redefine action cinema.
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