This John Lewis Christmas Ad, Made by a Student, Is Being Mistaken for the Real Thing

Nick Jablonka's surprise viral hit

Inspiration meets innovation at Brandweek, the ultimate marketing experience. Join industry luminaries, rising talent and strategic experts in Phoenix, Arizona this September 23–26 to assess challenges, develop solutions and create new pathways for growth. Register early to save.

A fake John Lewis ad about a lonely snowman, created by a young student as part of his coursework, is making waves in the U.K.—befuddling viewers and drawing widespread attention ahead of the release of the retailer's real Christmas commercial.

Earlier this year, 18-year-old Nick Jablonka created a minute-and-a-half-long spot to accompany an essay about the British retailer's popular holiday marketing campaigns. Back in June, he also uploaded it to YouTube. But in the past several days, U.K.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Subscribe today!

To Read the Full Story Become an Adweek+ Subscriber

View Subscription Options

Already a member? Sign in