A decade has passed since Wanda Dench and Jamal Hinton first spent Thanksgiving together, marking the beginning of an unlikely friendship that has captured the hearts of many. The story began in 2016 when Dench, then 58, accidentally sent a text message to Hinton, who was 17 at the time, inviting him to Thanksgiving dinner. The message was meant for her grandson, but he had recently changed his number.

The mix-up led to a humorous exchange between Dench and Hinton, with the latter jokingly asking if he could still come over for dinner. Dench’s response, “Of course you can, that’s what grandma’s do… feed everyone,” sparked a viral sensation on social media. The two eventually met and spent Thanksgiving together, starting a tradition that has continued to this day.

Now 68 and 26, respectively, Dench and Hinton have become an internet sensation, with many eagerly awaiting their annual updates. This year’s update, shared by Hinton, included a photo of the pair from their first meeting in 2016. The tradition has also caught the attention of Netflix, which announced plans to produce a film based on their story in 2021.

Over the years, Dench and Hinton’s Thanksgiving celebrations have evolved, with the pair partnering with brands such as Green Giant canned vegetables for their 2025 feast. Despite Dench’s social media account being hacked a few years ago, Hinton has continued to keep their fans updated on their plans.

The story of Dench and Hinton’s friendship serves as a heartwarming reminder of the power of kindness and the importance of human connection. As their tradition continues, it is clear that their bond has only grown stronger with time. With their story inspiring countless people around the world, it is likely that their annual updates will remain a highly anticipated event for years to come.