(Image: Debenhams)
Christmas adverts are already beginning to arrive as retailers prepare for the festive season.
Debenhams has become one of the first major names to unveil its Christmas campaign for 2026, with a host of familiar faces appearing on screen.
Emily Atack and Gavin and Stacey star Mathew Horne lead the cast of the retailer's nostalgic new festive film.
They are joined by Kym Marsh and singer Gabrielle for a story about old friends, unexpected reunions and Christmas plans going awry.
The online department store has unveiled its 2026 Christmas film, titled Christmas. For Everyone, with the four-minute advert making its online debut on Thursday, October 15.
It centres on a village Christmas party and the unexpected reunion of childhood friends Tina and Chris, played by Emily Atack and Mathew Horne.
The film begins with Tina getting ready for the party with her friends after returning to her childhood home.
Despite the celebrations, she isn't quite feeling the Christmas spirit until she arrives at the village hall and spots Chris, an old childhood friend.
The pair exchange a smile before growing closer throughout the evening.
However, the village's festive plans soon begin to unravel.
Landlady Katie, played by Kym Marsh, reveals that the party's headline act has been caught in a snowstorm.
Chris is encouraged to step in with his guitar, with a flashback revealing him and Tina together as teenagers as he plays a song connected to their past.
Things take another turn when a neighbour's elaborate Christmas lights cause a power cut, plunging the village into darkness.
As the residents work together to get the celebrations back on track, Gabrielle arrives to save the party.
The power returns as she takes to the stage, while Tina and Chris finally reunite with a kiss.
The advert ends with the villagers dancing to Gabrielle's Dreams, with influencers Saffron Barker, Sammi Maria and Jay Beech also appearing in the party scenes.
Debenhams style ambassador Mark Heyes stars as the party's compere.
The retailer said the campaign is designed to celebrate the unexpected moments that can make Christmas memorable, even when carefully made plans fall apart.
Dan Finley, CEO of Debenhams Group, said: “Christmas is all about dressing up, making the home look amazing and celebrating.
“It’s a time for creating new memories and reconnecting with the people, places and traditions we hold dear.
“Nostalgia has always been part of Debenhams’ story, and as a retailer with such a rich British heritage, we understand the role that familiar moments and celebrations play in bringing people together.
“Whether it’s an old flame, connecting with long-standing friends or family around the table, it’s often the simplest moments, a laugh, a dance or a conversation, that become the memories we treasure most.”
Emily Atack on starring in the Debenhams Christmas advert
Emily Atack said Debenhams and Christmas “go hand in hand” for her.
She said: “It was great to be asked to be a part of the campaign this year, especially as this is such an exciting Christmas for me personally.
“I loved filming it, the warm, nostalgic vibe of the party in the film felt just perfect and what a fantastically talented and lovely cast to be a part of.
“I can't wait for this Christmas season, and I adore the theme of the campaign which is to remind everyone to reconnect with family and friends at this wonderful time of the year.”
Mathew Horne also referenced his association with festive television, having appeared in Gavin and Stacey's Christmas specials.
He said: “I’m often associated with Christmas due to a certain TV programme!
“I know many fans have associated memories around that show and the festive period.
“Families, friends and loved ones would gather round the TV to watch the Christmas specials and I'm delighted to be a part of another festive film that celebrates similar themes of togetherness.”
Gabrielle added: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be working with Debenhams this Christmas!
“It’s a brand I’ve loved for years, so being part of their Christmas campaign feels really special. I’m excited for everyone to see it.”
The Christmas. For Everyone campaign was created in-house by Debenhams, produced by Pulse Films and directed by Tom Day.
Following its online debut on October 15, the campaign will also feature across social media, out-of-home advertising and other media throughout the festive season.