The 2026 John Lewis Christmas advert has been released, featuring a cover of The Rolling Stones' iconic song You Can't Always Get What You Want by Geordie musician Sam Fender as its soundtrack.
At the heart of the two-minute film is a wooden dog toy named Pickles, voiced by Paul Whitehouse. Complete with vintage-style red wheels and a pull string, the toy appears throughout the advert as a recurring feature that helps bring the festive story to life.
Pickles the dog helps grandma Gloria connect with her grandchildren
Pickles is the childhood companion of the advert's main character, grandma Gloria, played by Kristin Scott Thomas, best known for her role in Slow Horses, who is struggling to connect with her grandchildren. Baffled by their intent to seemingly destroy her posh house in search of something to play with, she tries to introduce her childhood toys to the kids, Maggie and Freddie, but they aren't interested.
Thankfully, Pickles is there to help, and takes Gloria on a magical mystery tour of the city to find the perfect presents for the kids. Finally, after a whirlwind ride in a carriage and failed visits to tacky shops, Gloria pulls up at John Lewis.
An ornate gold key leads to a festive surprise
When she returns home for Christmas day, she presents the kids - who are baffled by the lack of money in their cards - with an ornate gold key that leads to a festive room filled with tinsel and fairy lights, where a record player is set up for the family to dance together. Watching on from the doorway, Freddie and Maggie's parents smile as the family shares a joyful moment together.
John Lewis has also released a behind-the-scenes video, showing Pickles the dog being interviewed in a casting chair and causing havoc in the studio.
Cast and crew share their thoughts on the advert
Speaking about her starring role, Kristin Scott Thomas said: "I simply couldn't resist the opportunity to lead a John Lewis Christmas advert - it's such a cherished part of the festive season. Plus, Gloria's journey captured my heart straight away. She represents so many parents and grandparents who want nothing more than to create lasting memories with the younger generation. Working alongside Pickles to create the 'Gran Cave' was an absolute joy, and I hope the ad brings a big smile to families across the UK this Christmas."
Geordie musician Sam added: "It was a privilege to rework such an iconic song by such a legendary band. In the spirit of Christmas, we re-recorded the children's choir with the kids from my old school, John Spence Community High School, and we arranged a brass section with the Easington Colliery Band."
Even Rolling Stones star Mick Jagger was on board, commenting: "I'm a fan of Sam's work, so I was pleased to hear he was covering one of my songs. I think he's done a great job with it."
Viewers react emotionally to the festive film
Unsurprisingly, the emotional advert had viewers tearing up, with one commenting: "My fave John Lewis ad in a while, wanted to cry for Pickles." "John Lewis once again making me cry with their Christmas ad," someone else said. A third posted: "John Lewis xmas ad is another cracker!"
