John Lewis hits out at Xmas advert complaints as people spot missing character

09 November 2023 , 14:48

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John Lewis hits out at Xmas advert complaints as people spot missing character

John Lewis' highly anticipated Christmas advert has caused quite a stir this year, with many people disappointed at the apparent lack of proper festivity in the film.

Usually, people are left with tears streaking their faces at the advertisements for the popular retailer, but some are saying that this year, the ad, which features 'Snapper the perfect tree', hasn't quite hit the mark.

And it isn't a lack of chubby festive red-suited figures or funny little elves that people are mad about - it's the lack of a male parental figure. Viewers have taken to X, formerly Twitter, to share their dismay at no dads being involved in the advert, despite the fact that many children are brought up in single-parent households.

With the strapline 'Let Your Traditions Grow', the advert sees a young boy lovingly nurtures a Venus flytrap from a seed, believing he is cultivating the perfect Christmas tree. However, the fast-growing plant quickly becomes a life force of its own and wants to join in on the fun. But some people were noticing the lack of dad, or father figure, in the advert - rather than focusing on the heartwarming overall message.

Someone raged: "What the heck is that 'tree' straight from a horror movie? Also, there is no dad or man in that family?" Another said: "Being a dad I'll shop somewhere else this Christmas, thanks." One dad even fumed: "You could have at least slipped a token Grandad into the mix. Apparently, men don't exist at Christmas for whoever runs your marketing team. Lots of single Dads out there as well but much more important to look inclusive by excluding 50% of the population. Embarrassing."

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John Lewis hit back at the criticism online, as a member of its team responded to the tweet, writing: "Thanks for this Andrew. We always attempt to show a broad representation of British life across our advertising and this is a very realistic scenario for thousands of families in the UK."

Others defended the John Lewis ad and lack of father figure, with one saying: "Can't believe you're so triggered over a Christmas advert. I didn't even notice the lack of dad in it as all types of families exist so try not to make a thing out of a light-hearted advert", and another wrote: "I am a dad and don't feel unrepresented - move along."

Danielle Kate Wroe