The new John Lewis Christmas advert is here and it's a total tear-jerker!

You know it's officially the festive season when British department store John Lewis unveils their annual Christmas commercial.

The adverts, which are eagerly anticipated each year, are known for tugging at the heartstrings while being full of the holiday spirit.

And this year’s ad is no different.

Starring Elton John, the video tells the tear-jerking story of his rise to fame and fortune from humble beginnings.

Viewers are taken on a journey back through key moments in his life, including scenes of the 71-year-old on stadium tours, in a recording studio and performing in a school recital.

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The £7 million (NZ$13.4m) advert then cuts to the emotional singer playing the piano while thinking about his mother Sheila, who died last year, followed by the slogan: "Some gifts are more than just a gift".

Five actors aged between 4 and 50 were used to play Sir Elton, using prosthetics, CGI and help from the star and his husband David Furnish to ensure they had the same mannerisms and piano-playing style.

John Lewis has said the advert is "inspired by real events".