John Lewis has released its 2026 Christmas advert, 'Don't give up on giving', starring Kristen Scott Thomas as grandma Gloria and Paul Whitehouse as the voice of Pickles, a pull-along toy dog. The campaign celebrates multi-generational gifting and features Sam Fender covering The Rolling Stones' 'You Can't Always Get What You Want'.
The Story Behind the Advert
The advert follows grandma Gloria as she searches for the perfect present for her grandchildren in London, aided by Pickles, a pull-along toy dog she unwrapped herself as a child. Gloria swaps her usual cash gift for a room decorated with tinsel, disco balls and neon stars, creating a 'Grancave' for imaginative play.
This year's advert is less product-focused than previous ones, striking a less commercialised tone during the cost of living crisis. It continues John Lewis's tradition of memorable characters, following Edgar the dragon, Buster the dog and the Man on the Moon over the retailer's 20 years of Christmas ads.
Music and Charity
Sam Fender covers The Rolling Stones' 'You Can't Always Get What You Want' for the advert. The track will be available on vinyl, with all proceeds going to the charity Action For Children.
"It was a privilege to rework such an iconic song by such a legendary band," Sam Fender said. "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."
Products Featured in the Advert
Despite its emphasis on thoughtful gift-giving, the advert includes a range of shoppable products, from fashion and decorations to Pickle himself. Featured items include the Fisher Price Classics Little Snoopy Pull-Along Toy (£12.99), a John Lewis Velvet Bow Decoration in red (£15), and the John Lewis Cherisher Heart Key Tree Decoration in gold (£6).
Other highlights include a Small Disco Ball Decoration (£15), the Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB turntable (£245), John Lewis LED Star Window Lights (£30), and a Neon Star Light (£35). Interior pieces include a Sienna Bordered Velvet Cushion (£40) and a Teal Velvet Round Pouffe (£70).
Fashion items include Angel Leather Embellished Kitten Heel Court Shoes (£119), a Paisley Pure Silk Scarf (£65), the Mulberry Eliza Leather Tote Bag in oxblood (£695), and the John Lewis x RIXO Lucy Pure Silk Floral Maxi Dress (£365). The John Lewis Curator Frosted Orange Bauble (£8) and Esha Cushion (£45) complete the festive collection.
