Mick Jagger praises Sam Fender's cover of Rolling Stones classic for John Lewis Christmas advert
A version of 'You Can't Always Get What You Want' soundtracks 'Gloria and Pickles'
The John Lewis 2026 Christmas advert ‘Gloria and Pickles’ has premiered today, and it’s soundtracked by Sam Fender covering The Rolling Stones’ seminal 1969 anthem ‘You Can't Always Get What You Want’.
Sam Fender enlisted pupils from his boyhood school, John Spence Community High School in North Shields, to record the choir on his version of The Stones’ ‘Let It Bleed’ classic.
He also recruited the Easington Colliery Band for the plaintive and wistful version of ‘You Can't Always Get What You Want’, having previously worked with them on his 2025 song ‘Remember My Name’.
Sam Fender 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.”
The Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger added: “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.”
Sam Fender will donate all profits from the physical sales of the single via his official website to Teenage Cancer Trust.
Additionally, John Lewis plc will donate all profits from each John Lewis record and CD sold to Action for Children.
‘Gloria and Pickles’ stars award-winning actress Dame Kristin Scott Thomas alongside ‘Pickles the dog’ voiced by TV royalty, Paul Whitehouse.
The advert tells a story about rediscovering the joy in gifting, with the tagline “Don’t give up on giving”.
Watch the John Lewis 2026 Christmas advert ‘Gloria and Pickles’:
Kristin Scott Thomas 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 campaign was directed by Lucy Forbes, BAFTA-winning director known for her work on This Is Going to Hurt and Eric.