Laphroaig unveils new whisky collaboration with actor Willem Dafoe
By Shivani Dubey | 28 April 2026 | Culture, Food & Drink
Laphroaig has teamed up with actor Willem Dafoe to unveil an exclusive single malt whisky collaboration: Willem by Willem
In 2025, single malt whisky brand Laphroaig and four-time Oscar nominee Willem Dafoe joined forces in a partnership that was all about making bold choices. And in spirit of that ethos, the two have taken their collaboration to the next level by unveiling a new limited edition single malt whisky: Willem by Willem.
Marking the latest chapter in the collaboration, Dafoe selected the spirit with Laphroaig’s senior whisky maker Sarah Dowling. In keeping with the brand’s spirit of expecting the unexpected, instead of focusing on tasting notes and process, Willem chose the spirit that, according to the actor, made his “tastebuds and curiosity come alive the most”.
Speaking of the collaboration, Willem Dafoe explained the process of his spirited choices.
Related: Laphroaig launches whisky campaign with actor Willem Dafoe
“It was a pleasure learning about each of the whiskies shortlisted to be ‘the one’. I made my final choice based on the whisky that evoked the most curiosity about its taste – something I still can’t put my finger on, but that’s half the fun,” he said.
As for what it evokes in him? He leaves that up to the drinker: “For me, when I sip Willem by Willem, I experience…you tell me. For all who drink it, I hope the whisky will inspire discussion.”
Laphroaig’s senior whisky maker Sarah Dowling gave some more insight into making: “Our experience with whisky is so personal, from how we drink it – whether neat, with water or in a cocktail – to the different opinions about its taste. It was important to Willem and me that we selected a rich and complex spirit, unmistakably Laphroaig, but which allowed people to interpret and enjoy it in their own way.
Related: An ode to Sherry: The Glendronach Aged 56 Years whisky
“The whisky speaks for itself, and I look forward to hearing what it is saying to people around the world,” she said.
What’s more, Laphroaig is giving whisky and film fans a chance to appear in the brand’s next short film with Willem himself. Since whisky is such a personal experience for those who enjoy it, Laphroaig is inviting fans to share their interpretation of the tasting notes in any creative medium they choose, whether that be a poem, sketch or short film.
The person who showcases the boldest and most original character will have the chance to star alongside Willem Dafoe in the short film, set to be filmed later this year.
