Barry from EastEnders lands starring role in Christmas ad - watch it here

A former EastEnders star is ringing in the festive season in a new advert.

Shaun Williamson is best known for playing Barry Evans in the long-running BBC serial drama from 1994 to 2004. However, he is now gracing our screens in a much different way.

The UK’s biggest companies have begun to release their adverts for the Christmas period, and Lidl are next in line.

Williamson is front and centre in the advert, titled 'Lidl Christmas Everybody', which is a reworking of Slade’s iconic festive tune 'Merry Christmas Everybody'.

The actor, aptly dressed in a Lidl Christmas jumper, delivers shopping bags to surprised neighbours laden with Christmas-themed goodies from Lidl.

He was not alone, as former football commentator Chris Kamara, Capital FM presenter Kemi Rodgers and comedian Abi Clarke also starred in the ad.

As expected, Lidl’s new seasonal range was on full display, including turkeys, Brussels sprouts, mince pies and chocolate gonks.

Commenting on his appearance in the supermarket Christmas advert, Williamson was delighted to help kick off the festive season.

“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!"

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“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!” He continued.

Joanna Gomer, Lidl GB’s Marketing Director, was thrilled to bring the supermarket’s 2026 Christmas advert to television screens around the UK.

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“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,” she said.

“This marks the start of our Christmas celebrations at Lidl, with plenty of exciting surprises and festive favourites still to come.

“We’re looking forward to bringing a little extra sparkle to the season and helping customers get ready for the most wonderful time of the year.”

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