Marks and Spencer has launched its festive food campaign for Christmas, with comedian Dawn French reprising her role as the Christmas Fairy.
Alongside French, the food retailer unveiled Jennifer Saunders as the Christmas Fairy’s new friend, Duckie, a much-loved dog toy.
The advert, which debuts on ITV’s This Morning, begins with the Fairy hopping off the top of the Christmas tree to find a “new very special friend” to celebrate Christmas with.
The new campaign is the first in a series of eight showing the adventures of the two Christmas characters, concluding with a New Year’s Eve special.
“This Christmas we know families want a cosy but special get together at home,” M&S Food director of marketing and hospitality Sharry Cramond said.
“Our ad brings to life what we have to offer – the perfect menu to deliver that warm, fuzzy, festive feeling.
“We know value is front of mind for families and our food range is about offering the best possible quality at the best possible price – from essentials to showstoppers – alongside that all-important dose of M&S Christmas magic.”
She added: “We couldn’t resist reuniting two British icons in Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders with the British icon that is M&S.
“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.
“I predict Wylie the dog will go on to be a huge star!”
French added: “I had the time of my life lending my voice to the Fairy that brought Percy Pig to life last year. 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.”
Saunders concluded: “When the call came in asking me to be in the M&S Christmas ad, I didn’t have to think about it.
“To bring the team back together for it? It was a Christmas must.
