Children's book illustrator accuses John Lewis of ripping off 'Mr Underbed' for Christmas ad

Another year, another controversy around the John Lewis Christmas ad.

A well-known children's books illustrator has accused the British department store of ripping off one of his works for the annual, long-awaited season ad.

Chris Riddell, who is also a political cartoonist for the Observer, shared a video live on periscope in which he compared his 1986 book "Mr Underbed" to the ad.

Just like John Lewis ad, "Mr Underbed" features a blue, under-the-bed flurry monster with a red nose who becomes friend with a boy:

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Riddell told The Guardian:

“The idea of a monster under the bed is by no means new but the ad does seem to bear a close resemblance to my creation – a big blue unthreatening monster who rocks the bed and snores loudly. Needless to say, I think Mr Underbed is a lot more appealing than Moz, but of course, I’m biased. I’ll be fascinated to hear John Lewis’ thoughts on the matter.”

The illustrator said "Mr Underbed" was his first picturebook, but it was re-illustrated in 2009. He spoke about it often at public events.

A John Lewis spokeswoman said the story of a monster under the bed "has been told many times over many years."

"Ours is a Christmas story of friendship and fun between Joe and Moz The Monster, in which Joe receives a night light which helps him get a good night’s sleep," it continued. "The main thrust of our story is utterly different to Chris Riddell’s.”