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The DunKings™ Return to the Big Game: Dunkin’® and Ben Affleck Rally a New Team—Featuring Casey Affleck, Jeremy Strong and Bill Belichick—to Defend Their Coffee Crown

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The DunKings™ Return to the Big Game: Dunkin’® and Ben Affleck Rally a New Team—Featuring Casey Affleck, Jeremy Strong and Bill Belichick—to Defend Their Coffee Crown
News

News

The DunKings™ Return to the Big Game: Dunkin’® and Ben Affleck Rally a New Team—Featuring Casey Affleck, Jeremy Strong and Bill Belichick—to Defend Their Coffee Crown

2025-02-10 07:46 Last Updated At:08:01

BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb 9, 2025--

In 2024, Dunkin’ and Ben Affleck introduced The DunKings to the world, but they were just getting started. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. In Dunkin’s multi-part campaign culminating in the debut of “ DunKings 2: The Movie,” the band returns to defend their title in a high-stakes coffee band battle, told through an epic new short film. In continued partnership with Artists Equity, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s company, the Dunkin’ Cinematic Universe keeps expanding—bigger, funnier and more over-the-top than ever before.

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Because not every battle is won before noon, Dunkin’ is rolling out a new $3 Medium Shakin’ Espresso offer after 12 p.m., perfect for those who need an afternoon encore. (Photo: Business Wire)

Because not every battle is won before noon, Dunkin’ is rolling out a new $3 Medium Shakin’ Espresso offer after 12 p.m., perfect for those who need an afternoon encore. (Photo: Business Wire)

Now, anyone can eat like a DunKing or DunQueen for a limited time with The DunKings $6 Meal Deal, available nationwide in a limited-edition band-inspired box. For $6, guests can enjoy a hearty Sausage, Egg and Cheese Sandwich, crispy Hash Browns and a medium Hot (14 oz.) or Iced Coffee (24 oz). It’s a meal that delivers big value with the Dunkin’ classics that guests already love. (Photo: Business Wire)

Now, anyone can eat like a DunKing or DunQueen for a limited time with The DunKings $6 Meal Deal, available nationwide in a limited-edition band-inspired box. For $6, guests can enjoy a hearty Sausage, Egg and Cheese Sandwich, crispy Hash Browns and a medium Hot (14 oz.) or Iced Coffee (24 oz). It’s a meal that delivers big value with the Dunkin’ classics that guests already love. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250209124144/en/

The Dunkin’ Cinematic Universe began in 2023 when Ben took his fandom to the next level, working a real Dunkin’ drive-thru in the brand’s first-ever ad during the pro football championship. From there, it only got wilder: last year, he chased pop stardom, forming The DunKings in the Dunkin’ big game moment that had everyone talking. Now, with the most epic chapter yet unfolding, one thing is clear: Dunkin’ fans wanted more, and the brand is delivering.

“Everyone wants to be a DunKing! After seeing the incredible response to Ben and the DunKings last year, we created an entire coffee and breakfast universe to extend the fun and make one thing clear: Dunkin’ is for everyone,” said Jill McVicar Nelson, Chief Marketing Officer at Dunkin’. “This latest chapter is bigger, funnier, and full of surprises—and it reinforces what Dunkin’ has always been about: great coffee, fast—plain and simple. We have a lot to offer, from all-day breakfast to high-quality drinks served at the speed of Dunkin’. And while we take those things very seriously, we never take ourselves too seriously. DunKings for life.”

DunKings 2: The Movie– A Coffee Battle for the Ages

After last year’s viral debut, The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. Welcome to Java Jam, a comic convention-style battleground where new coffee brand bands go head-to-head for the coveted coffee cup trophy. With challengers emerging and The DunKings’ legacy on the line, Ben is rallying a new crew to defend their title. But can they rise to the occasion?

As Ben returns to maintain the band’s top spot, decked out in a custom Juicy Couture ® DunKings tracksuit, his latest recruits for The DunKings 2.0 are unveiled for more Bostonian star power. He’s first joined by Oscar-winning actor Casey Affleck, who is reluctant, but pulled into the fun by his big brother. Next to him, there’s a man who knows a thing or two about winning: eight-time pro football champion Bill Belichick, along with his record-breaking 24 seasons at the New England Patriots cementing him as an icon in Boston’s sports legacy.

But that’s not all. Ben teases a fourth member as the big surprise. To clench the coffee competition, Oscar-nominated actor Jeremy Strong joins the ensemble. Being part of The DunKings isn’t for the faint of heart, it takes commitment. Jeremy knows better than anyone, proving he’s willing to go all in for Dunkin’. Behind the scenes in his dressing room, as intense percussion rhythms play, Jeremy prepares for his role. When Ben and Casey arrive, they find him fully immersed—literally—in Dunkin’ coffee grounds. As he’s “listening to the beans,” Jeremy reveals his epiphany: “Dunkin’ is Boston. Boston is Paul Revere.” So naturally, for The DunKings to win Java Jam, he must channel the essence of perhaps the most famous Bostonian, Paul Revere.

As Jeremy continues his character transformation, The DunKings come face-to-face with their biggest rivals yet: The Drip Squad, led by comedian and actor Druski, The Burger Chain Gang and The Barista Buds. The boy bands exchange comedic clap backs as they prepare to battle it out. As the competition reaches peak absurdity, Jeremy breaks the tension and enters as Paul Revere. He fully embraces the patriotic spirit of Revere with revolutionary-era jabs, jokes, backup fife and drums, and even a Dunkin’-centric proclamation, declaring “America Runneth on Dunkin’!”

As Jeremy’s pronouncement causes fans to erupt in cheers, the infighting dies down and the rivalry melts away. The bands come together to break bread—or rather coffee and breakfast sandwiches—proving once and for all that Dunkin’s for all of you’s,” as they enjoy The DunKings $6 Meal Deal, available at Dunkin’ locations nationwide. And just when it seems to be over, the scene cuts to Ben and Casey debating who started this passionate fandom. A surprise boy band icon steps into the scene, actor and musician Donnie Wahlberg —the New Kids on the Block legend corrects them both, “I started it,” and pops in for a bite.

The DunKings $6 Meal Deal and $3 Shakin’ Espresso Offer

Now, anyone can eat like a DunKing or DunQueen for a limited time with The DunKings $6 Meal Deal, available nationwide in a limited-edition band-inspired box. For $6*, guests can enjoy a heartySausage, Egg and Cheese Sandwich, crispy Hash Browns and amedium Hot (14 oz.) or Iced Coffee(24 oz). It’s a meal that delivers big value with the Dunkin’ classics that guests already love.

And because not every battle is won before noon, Dunkin’ is also rolling out a new $3 MediumShakin’ Espresso** offer after 12 p.m., perfect for those who need an afternoon encore.

The DunKings Merch Drop

For fans who missed the Juicy Couture ® x Dunkin’ Tracksuits before it sold out in minutes, a special DunKings Merch Collection offers another chance to get in on the action. Available starting Monday, Feb. 10 at 9 a.m. ET on DunkinGear.com, the collection includes:

Plus, guests can visit their local Dunkin’ for more swag: DunKings and DunQueens Tumblers ($16.99), Straw Toppers ($6.99), Reusable Cup Pack ($12.99) and Koozies ($6.99). Dunkin’ Rewards members get exclusive early access in the mobile app the night of the big game.

DunKings and DunQueens across the country—suit up, fuel up and celebrate the band’s return!

*Excludes espresso and cold brew beverages and loaded hash browns. Offer valid on Sausage, Egg & Cheese breakfast sandwiches only. Participation may vary. Limited time offer. Cannot be combined with other offers. Terms apply.

**Offer valid on any medium Shakin’ Espresso only. Excludes all other espresso beverages. Price and participation may vary. Limited time offer.

About Dunkin’

Dunkin’, founded in 1950, is the largest coffee and donuts brand in the United States, with more than 13,700 restaurants in nearly 40 global markets. Dunkin’ is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants. For more information, visit DunkinDonuts.com and InspireBrands.com.

About Artists Equity

Artists Equity is an independent, artist-led studio reimagining the relationship between talent, studio, and distributor. The company prioritizes and partners with creators through an innovative business model, so that all can truly participate and realize the value they bring to a project. Artists Equity is co-founded by Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, and Gerry Cardinale of RedBirdCapital.

Because not every battle is won before noon, Dunkin’ is rolling out a new $3 Medium Shakin’ Espresso offer after 12 p.m., perfect for those who need an afternoon encore. (Photo: Business Wire)

Because not every battle is won before noon, Dunkin’ is rolling out a new $3 Medium Shakin’ Espresso offer after 12 p.m., perfect for those who need an afternoon encore. (Photo: Business Wire)

Now, anyone can eat like a DunKing or DunQueen for a limited time with The DunKings $6 Meal Deal, available nationwide in a limited-edition band-inspired box. For $6, guests can enjoy a hearty Sausage, Egg and Cheese Sandwich, crispy Hash Browns and a medium Hot (14 oz.) or Iced Coffee (24 oz). It’s a meal that delivers big value with the Dunkin’ classics that guests already love. (Photo: Business Wire)

Now, anyone can eat like a DunKing or DunQueen for a limited time with The DunKings $6 Meal Deal, available nationwide in a limited-edition band-inspired box. For $6, guests can enjoy a hearty Sausage, Egg and Cheese Sandwich, crispy Hash Browns and a medium Hot (14 oz.) or Iced Coffee (24 oz). It’s a meal that delivers big value with the Dunkin’ classics that guests already love. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

The DunKings started a movement and now, everyone wants in. After changing the game last year, other bands are now coming for their crown. Ben Affleck returns to maintain the band's top spot, alongside his latest recruits for "The DunKings 2.0," featuring Casey Affleck, Bill Belichick and Jeremy Strong. (Photo: Business Wire)

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Enzo Maresca left his post as Chelsea head coach on Thursday after a reported deterioration in his relationship with the Premier League club’s hierarchy.

The Italian coach was midway through his second season in charge. In his first season, he won the Conference League and Club World Cup.

Last month, Maresca said he had experienced his “worst” 48 hours at Chelsea and expressed his unhappiness at a lack of support at the club, but didn’t go into specific reasons.

Chelsea is in fifth place in the Premier League, but has won just one of its last seven league matches, and has advanced to the English League Cup semifinals, where it will play Arsenal over two legs.

“With key objectives still to play for across four competitions including qualification for Champions League football," Chelsea said in a statement, "Enzo and the club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track.”

Chelsea is coming off a 2-2 home draw against Bournemouth in the league on Tuesday, and next plays second-place Manchester City away on Sunday.

The club said Chelsea's achievements under Maresca “will remain an important part of the club’s recent history, and we thank him for his contributions to the club.”

There was no immediate word on his potential successor, with Chelsea seeking a fifth full-time manager since the takeover of the club by American investors, fronted by Todd Boehly, in May 2022.

In the past 3 1/2 years, Chelsea has spent hundreds of million of pounds (dollars) in what looked from the outside a chaotic bid to sign players to refresh its squad. It now has one of the youngest and most talented squads in the Premier League, with star players including Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernandez and Estevao, but managers have struggled to get the players to gel as a team after so many changes.

Out of all the managers to have led Chelsea in that period — and they include Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino, the current coaches of England and the United States, respectively — Maresca appeared to have handled the chaos the best.

Yet he reportedly didn't feel appreciated given the tough working conditions and, according to the BBC, recently switched agents. A few weeks ago, media reports in England linked Maresca with a possible move to Man City — where he briefly worked under Pep Guardiola — should Guardiola eventually leave, though Maresca played the reports down.

Chelsea's results have taken a downturn in recent weeks, since a 3-0 win over Barcelona in the Champions League in November.

The team's only league win in the past month was a 2-0 over Everton. There have been draws with Arsenal, Newcastle and Bournemouth (twice) and losses to Leeds and Aston Villa.

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

FILE - Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca reacts during the Champions League opening phase soccer match between Atalanta and Chelsea, in Bergamo, Italy, on Dec. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni, File)

FILE - Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca reacts during the Champions League opening phase soccer match between Atalanta and Chelsea, in Bergamo, Italy, on Dec. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni, File)

FILE - Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca sits on a bench ahead of the Champions League opening phase soccer match between Qarabag and Chelsea in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Nov. 5, 2025. (AP Photo, File)

FILE - Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca sits on a bench ahead of the Champions League opening phase soccer match between Qarabag and Chelsea in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Nov. 5, 2025. (AP Photo, File)

Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca, left, gives instructions to Estevao during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and Bournemouth in London, England, Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca, left, gives instructions to Estevao during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and Bournemouth in London, England, Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

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