This year’s story is about the power of a gift, starring Elton John.

The much-anticipated John Lewis Christmas advert was released this morning with a sprinkling of star quality.

Titled The Boy and the Piano, the advert celebrates the life of Elton John. The singer’s hit track ‘Your Song’ is played as the video charts the life of the legendary singer.

The story begins with Elton in the present day, sitting in a dressing gown playing his piano, before whirling through his rise to stardom over the decades.

The nostalgic short film ends on a heartwarming note with a young Elton receiving a life-changing gift of a piano for Christmas. The special scene ends with the message: ‘Some gifts are more than just a gift’.

Image: John Lewis

The cost of this year’s spectacle is estimated at £7m.

As expected, the UK department store is promoting the sale of pianos from the advert. Fans of the ad will find the ‘Your Song’ music single, Elton t-shirts and pianos featured the John Lewis website today.

While the John Lewis ad is available to watch online now, its TV premiere will be at 9.15pm tonight during Dark Heart on ITV.

ITV viewers have noticed that regular theme tunes of their favourite shows have changed today too. Piano tracks have been played over everything from This Morning and The Chase to Emmerdale and Coronation Street in celebration of the #EltonJohnLewis event.

What do you think of this year’s advert?