World of Tanks is bringing Hollywood to the battlefield this holiday season with Benedict Cumberbatch leading the Holiday Ops 2026 festivities.
Wargaming has announced that Benedict Cumberbatch will serve as the official ambassador for Holiday Ops 2026, bringing his signature style and intelligence to the annual winter event. The British actor steps into the role at a time when gaming collaborations with major talent are reshaping how players experience seasonal content.
World of Tanks Holiday Ops 2026 launches Dec. 5, 2025, and runs through Jan. 12, 2026, giving players more than a month to dive into festive missions and winter-themed challenges. Cumberbatch greets tankers from inside a snow-dusted holiday garage, where he assigns special tasks and helps create what Wargaming describes as a unique seasonal atmosphere. If that was not enough, players can even unlock him as a fully voiced tank commander by completing exclusive celebrity-themed rewards.
“I’m thrilled to be part of World of Tanks’ Holiday Ops this year,” said Benedict Cumberbatch. “It’s a game that celebrates strategy, teamwork, and thinking a few steps ahead. I really enjoyed collaborating with the team and bringing a new flavour to that world—along with a bit of festive spirit. Wishing all the players a fantastic holiday season.”
This year’s event includes an original short film that continues Wargaming’s annual tradition of holiday storytelling. The narrative follows Sebastian, a shy office worker who struggles to speak to his crush, Sarah. Cumberbatch plays an eccentric therapist who guides him through creative exercises to overcome his fears. The result blends warmth and humour with a gentle surrealism that reinforces themes of courage and connection—elements that fit naturally within the holiday season. It is also ridiculous and well worth a watch. I have to say, the World of Tanks Holiday Ops videos are always enjoyable, with last year’s Jason Statham feature being a particular standout.
World of Tanks has spent years building Holiday Ops into one of its biggest annual draws, and the addition of a high-profile ambassador like Cumberbatch reinforces the ongoing effort the developer invests in its community. With more than 50 missions tied to his Holiday Ops Challenge, along with signature customizations and growing bonuses to credits or experience points, players have plenty of reasons to return throughout the season.
