John Lewis Christmas Advert 2026: Dame Kristin Scott Thomas Stars in Heartwarming ‘Gloria and Pickles’ Campaign

John Lewis has unveiled its 2026 Christmas advert, Gloria and Pickles, marking the 20th anniversary of the retailer’s iconic festive campaigns. Starring Dame Kristin Scott Thomas and featuring new music from Sam Fender, the heartwarming story encourages shoppers to make Christmas gifting more thoughtful, personal and meaningful.

Set on Christmas Eve, the advert follows Gloria as she prepares her beautifully decorated home for the arrival of her family. When her grandchildren, Freddie and Maggie, arrive, she dusts off a collection of treasured vintage toys from the attic, including the classic Fisher-Price Little Snoopy Pull-Along Toy, hoping to keep them entertained. You can still find the nostalgic toy at John Lewis, making it a charming Christmas gift for families looking to share classic childhood memories.

As the festive preparations continue, Gloria worries she has lost touch with what her grandchildren really love. Planning to slip cash into their Christmas cards instead of choosing gifts herself, she is unexpectedly challenged by Pickles, the mischievous toy dog who springs to life and encourages her to put more thought into her presents.

What follows is a magical Christmas adventure across London, culminating in a visit to John Lewis, where Gloria discovers the inspiration she needs. The journey reinforces the retailer’s festive message that the most memorable gifts are often the ones chosen with care and personal meaning. Shoppers searching for thoughtful Christmas presents can browse the latest John Lewis Christmas gift collection, featuring everything from family games and toys to home décor, fashion and personalised gifting ideas.

The advert reaches its emotional conclusion on Christmas morning when Gloria reveals her surprise gift: a spectacular “Gran Cave” hidden behind a locked door in her home. Filled with twinkling lights, music and disco-inspired décor inspired by her adventure, the magical space creates an unforgettable moment that brings generations together and proves that meaningful experiences can be the greatest gift of all.

With its blend of nostalgia, humour and heartfelt storytelling, Gloria and Pickles is set to become another memorable chapter in the history of the John Lewis Christmas advert, while inspiring families to make festive gifting feel personal once again.

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.”

Sam Fender said, “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.”

Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger: “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.”

As Gloria and Pickles brings the curtain down on another memorable festive campaign, John Lewis reminds viewers that the most meaningful gifts aren’t always the most expensive. Through humour, nostalgia and a heartwarming family story, the retailer’s 2026 Christmas advert celebrates the joy of thoughtful giving and the special moments that bring generations together at Christmas. With Dame Kristin Scott Thomas delivering a standout performance and an emotional soundtrack from Sam Fender, it’s a festive film sure to spark plenty of conversation throughout the holiday season.