John Lewis unveils 2026 Christmas advert starring Kristin Scott Thomas

John Lewis has unveiled its 2026 Christmas advert, starring Kristin Scott Thomas as a grandmother whose talking toy dog helps her find a more personal gift for her grandchildren. The advert follows Gloria as she welcomes Freddie and Maggie to her London home on Christmas Eve. When the children grow bored and make a mess of her study, Gloria brings out Pickles, a wooden pull-along dog from her childhood. Pickles, voiced by Paul Whitehouse, comes to life and challenges her habit of giving cash. The pair set off on a shopping trip through London, travelling by tuk-tuk to John Lewis as Gloria searches for a thoughtful present. On Christmas morning, the children find no money in their cards. Instead, Gloria gives them a key to her study, which she has transformed into a colourful “Gran Cave” with lights, disco balls and a turntable, creating a space for them to spend time together. The soundtrack is Sam Fender’s cover of The Rolling Stones’ “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” Fender said children from his former school recorded the choir, while Easington Colliery Band contributed the brass arrangement. Mick Jagger said he was pleased Fender had covered one of his songs and...