M&S has unveiled it’s Christmas food ad featuring TV comedy legend Dawn French – and it’s the first in a six-part series.
The retailer is kicking off the festive season with the launch of the video through its social media channels at 9am today.
M&S has unveiled the first part in a six-part series of Christmas food ads[/caption]
The iconic Fairy character, voiced by Dawn French, is back on screens[/caption]
French parties the night away during the 90-second ad[/caption]
The seasonal ad, which The Sun can exclusively reveal for the first time, sees the return of the iconic Fairy, voiced by none other than Dawn French.
And in a plot twist, the much-loved actress is making her on-screen debut in the video, created by media agency Mindshare.
The 90-second long ad starts with French walking through a fairy light-bejewelled street before arriving home.
She sits down at the sofa surrounded by decorations that still haven’t been put up, dejectedly pronouncing: “So much to do.”
Within seconds, the iconic Fairy character emerges from a cardboard box on the floor offering her magical services to French’s shock and astonishment.
It’s not long before French’s neighbours are knocking at the door waiting to be let in for a festive gathering.
Luckily, the Fairy works her magical charm and within a few swooshes French’s home is transformed and her living room table suddenly laden with food and drink.
French quips “that is reasonably impressive” before opening the front door to her guests and partying the night away.
The advert is the first in a series of six which M&S said will feature competitions, behind the scenes footage and in-store giveaways.
The second ad, themed on gifting, will launch on November 13, while ad three on party food is being unveiled on November 20.
Ads four and five, centred around Christmas Day and puddings will both be released on December 17, with classical singer and OBE Katherine Jenkins appearing in the fifth.
The sixth ad will air on December 26 focused on New Year’s Eve.
Sharry Cramond, M&S food marketing director said: “Last year, our Fairy added something truly magical to Christmas, and this year, we’re thrilled to take it to the next level, with Dawn French herself
joining the fun alongside her Fairy character!
“We’re always looking to push creative boundaries, and we believe this year’s campaign will leave our customers smiling and feeling super inspired.
“To top it off, we’re honoured to feature the incredible Katherine Jenkins, adding even more festive magic to our screens.”
This year marks the fourth time Dawn French, who came to fame in the TV comedy show The Vicar of Dibley, has appeared on M&S’ Christmas ads.
Last year, she featured alongside A-list stars and owners of Wrexham Football Club Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
In 2022 she starred alongside Jennifer Saunders as Fairy and Duckie as they take a tour of Christmas dishes, while narrowly escaping Wylie the dog.
Back in 2021, we saw the debut of French’s character as she starred alongside Spiderman actor Tom Holland who voiced Percy Pig.
Dawn has since lent her voice to several M&S Food campaigns.
Marks and Spencer isn’t the only supermarket chain to launch its Christmas ad campaign this year.
John Lewis is already two thirds of the way through a first-of-its-kind ad campaign in the run up to Christmas.
Meanwhile, Sainsbury’s has unveiled its festive ad for 2024, featuring iconic Roald Dahl character the BFG.
Some retailers have already confirmed they’ll close on Boxing Day to give staff time off as well.
Home Bargains, Aldi and John Lewis and Waitrose have all said they will shut stores on December 25 and 26.
How to save money on Christmas shopping
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how you can save money on your Christmas shopping.
Limit the amount of presents – buying presents for all your family and friends can cost a bomb.
Instead, why not organise a Secret Santa between your inner circles so you’re not having to buy multiple presents.
Plan ahead – if you’ve got the stamina and budget, it’s worth buying your Christmas presents for the following year in the January sales.
Make sure you shop around for the best deals by using price comparison sites so you’re not forking out more than you should though.
Buy in Boxing Day sales – some retailers start their main Christmas sales early so you can actually snap up a bargain before December 25.
Delivery may cost you a bit more, but it can be worth it if the savings are decent.
Shop via outlet stores – you can save loads of money shopping via outlet stores like Amazon Warehouse or Office Offcuts.
They work by selling returned or slightly damaged products at a discounted rate, but usually any wear and tear is minor.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.
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