Dawn French has returned as the hero of this year’s M&S Christmas ad, reprising her role as the Christmas Fairy. This time, she is joined by her longtime comedy partner Jennifer Saunders as ‘Duckie’ -  a “tattered, yet adorable” dog’s chew toy.

The ad sees the pair discover Marks & Spencer’s Christmas food range in a bid to bring some fesrtive cheer to the down and out Duckie, who is chased by the family’s excitable dog. In the full length ad, the duo promote the retailer’s Cherry & Orange Liqueur Christmas Pudding Wreath, Sloe Gin, Blood Orange & Cranberry Vodka, Mini Steak Sandwiches and Collection Christmas Sourdough, among other items.

“We couldn’t resist reuniting two British icons in Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders with the British icon that is M&S,” said the retailer’s director of marketing and hospitality Sharry Crammond.

“It’s a match made in heaven as they lend their voices to the glamorous Fairy and adorable Duckie and it’s fantastic to have them on board.

“For us, it’s all about the products (it does surprise me that many Christmas ads don’t actually feature any products – our customers are very clear that they want the advertising to showcase our hero must-buy lines),” Crammond added on LinkedIn.

French also starred in the M&S Christmas advert in 2021, when she was joined by Spiderman star Tom Holland, who voiced Percy Pig.

“I had the time of my life lending my voice to the Fairy that brought Percy Pig to life last year,” said French.

“I was so excited that M&S wanted to bring her back for more adventures and discover more of that amazing food – and, this time with a trusty new sidekick! To have my right-hand-woman back as that sidekick – well, obviously it was a yes with festive bells on from me!” 

Topics

Watch: All the retailers’ Christmas adverts 2022