Kristin Scott Thomas leads John Lewis Christmas ad with surprise comedian cameo
Dame Kristin Scott Thomas stars as grandmother Gloria in the new John Lewis festive commercial, featuring a wooden dog voiced by Paul Whitehouse.
Kristin Scott Thomas fronts John Lewis’ latest Christmas advert
Dame Kristin Scott Thomas, aged 66, appears as grandmother Gloria in the department‑store chain’s new festive commercial.
In the spot, Gloria opens her London home to her family on Christmas Eve, only to be disheartened when her two young grandchildren, Freddie and Maggie, turn her immaculate study into a mess while trying to relieve boredom.
The ad also features a pull‑along wooden dog named Pickles, voiced by comedian Paul Whitehouse, and is set to Sam Fender’s cover of the Rolling Stones classic “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”.
Fender explained that the recording included a children’s choir from his former school, John Spence Community High School, and a brass arrangement by the Easington Colliery Band. Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger praised Fender’s rendition, saying he was pleased to hear the cover.
Proceeds from the single, which is backed with Fender’s 2020 cover of “Winter Song”, will be donated to the Teenage Cancer Trust and Action for Children, the latter being John Lewis’s charity partner for its Building Happier Futures programme.
Kristin commented on the role, stating, “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.” She added that working with Pickles to create the “Gran Cave” was “an absolute joy”.
The commercial continues John Lewis’s tradition of high‑profile talent, following Sir Elton John’s starring role in the 2018 Christmas ad.
Kristin Scott Thomas plays grandmother Gloria.
Grandchildren Freddie and Maggie disrupt the study.
Wooden dog Pickles is voiced by Paul Whitehouse.
Music: Sam Fender’s cover of “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”.
Charity proceeds go to Teenage Cancer Trust and Action for Children.
The ad aims to rediscover the joy in gifting with the tagline “Don’t give up on giving”.
