Lidl has launched its festive advertising campaign, featuring EastEnders actor Shaun Williamson, known for his role as Barry Evans, in a rendition of Slade's Christmas hit "Merry Xmas Everybody." The advertisement, released on November 3, 2026, reimagines the classic song with new lyrics and a star-studded cast.
Williamson is joined in the ad by former footballer and presenter Chris Kamara, Capital FM's Kemi Rodgers, and comedian Abi Clarke. The ad follows Williamson as he moves from house to house, spreading Christmas cheer with Lidl's festive products. The campaign aims to capture the spirit of Christmas through themes of generosity and togetherness.
"Christmas is all about bringing people together, having fun and spreading a little festive cheer, so I jumped at the chance to help Lidl kick off the festive season in style!" Williamson stated. "Putting a fresh spin on such an iconic Christmas classic was brilliant fun, and I hope it gets everyone smiling, singing along and feeling that little bit of Christmas magic!"
Joanna Gomer, Marketing Director at Lidl GB, expressed excitement about the campaign, saying, "There’s no better way to kick off the festive season than with a little music, a lot of fun and a Lidl twist on a Christmas classic! This marks the start of our Christmas celebrations at Lidl, with plenty of exciting surprises and festive favourites still to come."
Lidl's campaign joins a wave of festive advertisements from other retailers, including Sainsbury's, which has brought back the BFG for its third consecutive year, and Tesco, featuring a reunion between two old friends played by comedians Roisin Conaty and Anna Maxwell Martin. The Perfume Shop is also releasing an emotional campaign focusing on memory and tradition.