Ed Sheeran records Christmas song for new Richard Curtis film

Ed Sheeran has recorded a new original song for a new Christmas film by Richard Curtis.

The film is directed by screenwriter and director Richard Curtis, who is known for his work on films Four weddings and a funeral, Notting Hill And Indeed… love.

The title 'Under the Tree', will be seen in the upcoming animated film, This Christmasand will voices of Love Actually Bill Nighy, KillingEve Star Fiona Shaw and former Doctor Who Jodie Whittaker.

This Christmas will also see Consequence Star Brian Cox plays Santa Claus.

When Ed Sheeran spoke about this project, he revealed that he was friends with director Curtis “for years”, after doing charity work together. The singer also appeared in Curtis' musical film, Yesterday.

“He came to me two years ago to play me the rough cut of That Christmas. It was just sketches and voices, but it blew me away,” Said Sheeran.

The singer continued: “As emotional, yet as heartwarmingly funny as all of Richard Curtis' films. Since having kids, I've realised there's a real lack of great animated Christmas films for kids, so I thought it would be something great to make and put out into the world.”

“The scene we wrote this song for is so heartbreaking, but also so real for many people this Christmas: They spend Christmas without their loved ones for so many reasons.”

He added: “I got to work on it with my older brother, which is a rarity and a gift to work so closely with my only sibling. It felt so good to create something that my children would watch with their uncle, set in the country where they live.”

“I think it's a shame there aren't more animated Christmas movies for kids, but this movie is becoming a staple of the holidays, at least in our household.”

“so excited”

In this context, Richard Curtis expressed his joy that Ed Sheeran's song will be featured in his upcoming Christmas film.

“I’m so happy that Ed’s beautiful song is featured in our film”he said. “The film is set in Suffolk… Ed lives in Suffolk and loves the town. He completely understood the pitch and tone of what we were trying to achieve.”

“We have been friends for many years and it is really nice that he – especially now that he is a husband and father – plays such an important role in this film about love, children and family.”

“And even if he wasn't a friend and didn't love Suffolk, it was of course wonderful to have a wonderful new song from one of the greatest British songwriters of all time.”

Ed Sheeran also produced music for The Hobbit Film series by Peter Jackson and HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones, romantic film Fate is a lousy traitorAnd Apple TV+ Sports comedy Ted Lasso.

The singer also had a festive chart-topper with Elton John called Merry Christmaswhile the couple also featured in last year's Christmas song Sausage rolls for everyone, which included a post by YouTuber LadBaby.