Tony Yacenda

Tony Yacenda is a singular filmmaker known for his bold, deadpan humor and uncanny ability to create offbeat characters always rooted in authenticity. First steeped in craft as a keen observer, Yacenda’s work is set apart by his control of performance, intuitive casting and unmatched timing. His films are case studies in nuance, consistently bringing to life the unseen details that are universal yet delightfully unexpected.

In the commercial space, Yacenda has become a go-to director for his standout character work and sharp comedic craft, collaborating with top creative teams at Wieden+Kennedy, 72andSunny, and Anomaly. His Buffalo Wild Wings campaign introduced the brand’s new mascot, “Hank the Buffalo,” voiced by SNL alum Beck Bennett. With pitch-perfect casting and offbeat performances, the campaign showcases Yacenda’s unparalleled ability to turn clever scenarios into enduring brand moments. In “Cantenna” for Miller Lite, he brought a beer-can-turned-football-antenna to life with an epic music video parody. 

Beyond advertising, Yacenda co-created and directed the Peabody-winning and Emmy-nominated American Vandal, a Christopher Guest-esque take on the true crime genre. The series, based on a ludicrous premise, is a comedic feat of satire and storytelling without a false beat. In his subsequent series Players for Paramount+, Yacenda gives the League of Legends the Last Dance treatment, securing spots on numerous critics’ “Best Of” lists for his comedic innovation and storytelling prowess. He also executive produced and directed the pilot of Chad Powers, an upcoming Hulu comedy series starring Glen Powell, inspired by Eli Manning’s viral prank as the titular undercover college football walk-on. The series continues Yacenda’s track record for turning unconventional concepts into sharp, character-driven narratives with cultural bite.

Additionally, Yacenda has been celebrated for his work with Lil’ Dicky, finding breakout success with the music video “Pillow Talking” which earned him a spot in Saatchi & Saatchi’s New Director Showcase. He also received a Webby for “Save Dat Money”, a music video accompanied by a short film documentary, further cementing his reputation as a director with an unparalleled understanding of the cultural zeitgeist. That creative partnership evolved into the hit FX series Dave, where Yacenda directed multiple episodes across all three seasons, including the critically acclaimed season one finale, “Jail.”

Whether creating irreverent campaigns or genre-transcending narratives for Film and TV, Yacenda approaches every project with an unmistakable voice and an uncompromising commitment to craft. His work is a testament to the power of observation, holistic vision and ability to make the absurd deeply resonant.