Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · June 18, 2025 · Entertainment

From Classroom to Oscars: Toni Collette's Quirky '90s Ad Viral Again

Before red carpets, Oscar nominations and critically acclaimed roles, one of Australia's biggest Hollywood stars was just another young actor trying to make a buck

The Unlikely Origins of a Hollywood Icon: Toni Collette's Forgotten Ad

In a stunning turn of events, a long-forgotten commercial from 1992 has resurfaced online, shedding new light on the early career of one of Australia's most beloved stars – Toni Collette. The now-Oscar-nominated actress was once just another young actor trying to make a name for herself in the cutthroat entertainment industry.

And it seems she didn't always have it easy. In this quirky ad for Continental's 'MicroChef Pasta for One' range, Collette can be seen wearing a hot pink blazer over a red turtleneck – an outfit that screams "trying too hard." She appears bored senseless in a geography classroom, surrounded by globes and maps, before reluctantly presenting a sad-looking sandwich to the camera. It's clear this was just another day job for the aspiring actress.

The now-famous performer was barely recognisable in this quirky commercial for Continental's 'MicroChef Pasta for One' range, which first aired in 1992

But things take a turn for the better when she perks up while holding up the microwave-ready pasta packet with delight. A narrator sings the praises of the new solo-friendly snack in a cheesy music track that will transport you back to the 1990s. The ad is a masterclass in "90s nostalgia, with its punchy colours and classic Australian humour.

However, it's Collette who steals the show – not just because she's wearing what can only be described as a fashion disaster, but also because of her impressive acting chops. Even back then, this talented actress was able to convey emotion on screen with ease. Who knew that this young woman would go on to become an A-list sensation, known for walking red carpets and turning in standout performances in Hollywood blockbusters?

Fans are still reeling from the discovery, taking to social media to share their surprise over Collette's early work. One fan quipped, "She's such a good actress she could almost anything hehe," while another user commented, "I remember the ad – but didn't realise who it was." A third added, "That's good acting because it looks disgusting!"

It's none other than Toni Collette (pictured)

The ad has since become a viral sensation, with many praising Collette's natural screen presence even in a 30-second commercial. It seems that this talented actress was always destined for greatness – and her rise to fame was no accident.

Collette's early career is a fascinating tale of hard work and determination. She got her big break in 1994's Muriel's Wedding, which recently made its way back into cinemas for the Sydney Film Festival earlier this month. The film's success marked a turning point in Collette's career, paving the way for future roles in critically acclaimed films like The Sixth Sense, About a Boy, and Little Miss Sunshine.

But don't just take our word for it – even Bong Joon Ho, director of the Oscar-winning Parasite, has taken notice of Collette's talent. She will star alongside Timothée Chalamet in his latest film, Mickey 17. We can only imagine what other exciting projects she has lined up.

She famously got her big break in 1994's Muriel's Wedding (pictured), which recently made it's way back into cinemas for the Sydney Film Festival earlier this month

In a recent trip to London, Collette was spotted starting filming on a top-secret project – but we'll have to wait and see what this talented actress has in store for us next.

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