Dame Kristin Scott Thomas 'couldn't resist' John Lewis Christmas advert
Dame Kristin Scott Thomas jumped at the chance to star in this year's John Lewis Christmas advert 'Gloria and Pickles'.
Dame Kristin Scott Thomas "couldn't resist" the chance to star in the John Lewis Christmas advert.
The 66-year-old actress plays Gloria in this year's edition of the retailer's much-loved annual festive ad 'Gloria and Pickles' - which issues a heartwarming call to make festive gifting personal, joyful and meaningful once again – and expressed hope that it "brings a smile to families" this Christmas.
Kristin 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."
The advert, which is soundtracked by Sam Fender's brand new cover of the classic Rolling Stones tune You Can't Always Get What You Want, is set on Christmas Eve and sees Gloria putting the finishing touches to her home as she prepares to welcome her family – including grandchildren Freddie and Maggie – for the big day.
With the kids arriving restless from their long journey, Gloria retrieves her old toy collection from the attic to keep them entertained.
She introduces her grandchildren to Pickles the dog, a vintage Little Snoopy Pull-Along Toy, but they are soon distracted by calls for lunch, leaving Gloria feeling that she doesn't know what they really want.
While alone, Gloria writes their Christmas cards and places money inside each envelope as she doesn't feel confident in their ability to select gifts they will genuinely love.
The toy dog – voiced by comedian Paul Whitehouse - then suddenly springs to life and berates Gloria's lack of effort by stating that she "can do better than cash".
Pickles drags Gloria out of the house on a last-minute gifting mission. Just as they start giving up hope, a TukTuk arrives and takes the pair flying through the streets of London.
The bright and vibrant TukTuk sparks a gifting epiphany and Gloria calls it to a halt outside John Lewis.
On Christmas morning, Gloria gives Freddie and Maggie their Christmas cards – but the children are surprised to find the envelopes empty as their grandmother instead holds up a key.
Unlocking her home office door, they discover the 'Gran Gave' - a magical wonderland filled with sparkling lights, disco balls, and music inspired by her TukTuk travels.
A delighted Freddie and Maggie throw their arms around their grandmother, as Gloria's thoughtful surprise bridges the generational gap in a moment of pure joy.
Fender described it as a "privilege" to record a cover of the Stones song for the advert – which premiered on Tuesday (03.11.26).
He 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 rocker Sir Mick Jagger praised Fender for doing a "great job" with the You Can't Always Get What You Want cover.
He said: "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."
