John Lewis releases 20th Christmas film starring Kristin Scott Thomas

John Lewis has released its 20th annual Christmas advertisement, a short film starring Kristin Scott Thomas as a grandmother attempting to connect with her grandchildren. The campaign runs under the tagline 'Don’t give up on giving.'

The retailer began its tradition of producing festive films in 2007. Over the past two decades, the company has released stories featuring characters such as Monty the Penguin and The Bear and the Hare. The 2026 production marks the latest entry in this long-running series.

Scott Thomas, 66, plays Gloria, a character who opens her home to her daughter, son-in-law, and two children, Freddie and Maggie. The grandchildren rush past her for a hug to play on the sofa, showing they are in need of stimulation. Gloria decides to find the perfect gift to win them over.

She retrieves a wooden dog toy named Pickles from her attic. The toy, a vintage Little Snoopy Pull-Along, has been around for 60 years. Paul Whitehouse, 68, provides the voice for the animated Pickles. The character encourages Gloria to leave the house and search for presents in London.

The film follows Gloria as she takes a TukTuk through the city streets. She sees green aurora light in the sky and tinsel hanging from the vehicle handles. The journey ends at a John Lewis store. On Christmas Day, the children open envelopes from their grandmother but find no money inside.

Gloria leads them to a door with a bow that requires a special key to open. Behind the door is a decorated den called the 'Gran Cave,' featuring disco balls and sparkling lights. The three of them play music on a record player and dance together.

The film is set to a cover of the Rolling Stones song 'You Can’t Always Get What You Want.' Sam Fender, who is headlining Glastonbury 2027, performed the track for the advertisement. He re-recorded a children’s choir with students from his old school, John Spence Community High School.

Fender also arranged a brass section with the Easington Colliery Band. The single is backed by his 2020 cover of 'Winter Song.' John Lewis will sell the recording on seven-inch vinyl and CD. This will be the first time the 'Winter Song' cover is available on physical media.

Scott Thomas said she could not resist the opportunity to join the campaign. She described Gloria’s journey as capturing her heart because it reflects the desire of many grandparents to create lasting memories. She noted that working with Pickles to create the Gran Cave was a joy.

All profits from the vinyl and CD sales will go to the charity Action for Children. The organization supports children and young people. The advertisement is now available to watch, marking the start of the 2026 festive season for the retailer.