John Lewis' 2026 Christmas advert has divided viewers, with some calling it "lovely" and others saying it "missed the mark."
The advert was released on November 3 and stars Dame Kristin Scott Thomas as Gloria, a grandmother hosting her family in London on Christmas Eve.
When her grandchildren Freddie and Maggie disrupt her study, Gloria brings down Pickles, a vintage pull-along Little Snoopy toy voiced by Paul Whitehouse, to entertain them.
Pickles springs to life and encourages Gloria to do more than give cash, leading her on a tuk-tuk journey to John Lewis.
Watch the 2026 John Lewis Christmas advert
On Christmas morning, the children are given a key instead of money, unlocking Gloria’s study to reveal a transformed "Gran Cave" filled with lights, disco balls, and a turntable.
Set to a Sam Fender cover of You Can’t Always Get What You Want by The Rolling Stones, the advert aims to capture the magic of Christmas with a personal touch.
The song was recorded with children from John Spence Community High School and a brass section with the Easington Colliery Band.
Proceeds from the single will support the Teenage Cancer Trust and Action for Children.
Brits give verdict to John Lewis's 2026 Christmas advert
Public reaction to the advert has been mixed, with some viewers praising its heartwarming message and others feeling underwhelmed.
One YouTube commenter wrote: "Love the heart and message behind this, it just took a bit of time to get to the point! Worth sticking with though."
Another viewer said: "The sentiment is there but I’m used to crying into my morning coffee with the John Lewis Christmas adverts, not this year."
A third added: "I like the sentiment, but unfortunately was a miss for me again this year."
However, others were more positive.
One fan wrote: "My fave John Lewis ad in a while, wanted to cry for Pickles."
Another said: "Lovely ad, I know my child would love that room.
"And so great that the soundtrack will bring children safety and happiness by supporting Action for Children."
What are your thoughts on the 2026 John Lewis Christmas advert? Let us know in the comments.
Share