John Lewis Christmas Advert: Helen Mirren Lends Her Voice To The Lonely Elderly

Behind The Christmas Glitter Here Is The Tragic Reality Of That John Lewis Advert

Now though, a fresh take on the original advert strips back the gloss, emphasising the crushing loneliness experienced by many older people over the festive season.

Age UK which partnered with John Lewis on the original has released its own poignant version of the advert.

The lonely man on the Moon pictured in the Age UK ad

The charity's take shows the man on the Moon ambling across the desolate landscape before revealing it to be a set on a studio sound stage, before leaving him alone as the building's lights are switched off.

A voiceover by actor Helen Mirren talks over the scene, highlighting the plight of those left alone over Christmas.

She says: "It's hard to believe that a million older people can go a month without speaking to anybody.

The camera pans to reveal the studio set

"It doesn't have to be this way."

A fundraising effort will be launched on 20th November to raise money to keep older people company this Christmas and Age UK has developed tips and advice for those wanting to run their own fundraising events on its website.

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