Marks & Spencer has launched its latest festive campaign, stepping up competition against traditional holiday heavyweight John Lewis. The high street retailer's new commercial features actor James Norton as a topless, "shredded" Santa alongside Lucy Punch as Mrs Claus.
For years, John Lewis has dominated the UK's seasonal advertising landscape with emotional piano ballads and narrative-driven commercials. M&S is aiming to close that gap this festive season with an energetic campaign that highlights both shared holiday moments and shopping.
The lively commercial shifts away from the typical tearjerker formula by casting the youthful small-screen heart-throb in a comedic spin on the traditional holiday figure. The release marks the latest salvo in the high-stakes battle for festive retail profits.
