THE MAN WHO inspired the iconic Santa Claus figure in the Coca-Cola advertisements has died.
John Moore, whose likeness to Santa Claus won him roles in multiple television advertisements, died earlier this month aged 86. His funeral is taking place today in Burgess Hill, Sussex.
Moore’s biggest claim to fame was serving as the inspiration for the computer-generated Father Christmas in Coca-Cola’s 2006 advertising campaign.
Additionally, he portrayed Santa Claus in an ad for Morrison’s in which he was seen roaming around the supermarket, sneakily buying carrots for his reindeer.
In a statement, Coca-Cola said that Moore embodied the spirit of Christmas.
We are saddened to hear of the passing of John and our thoughts are with his family and the community. He really did bring to life the true spirit of the iconic Coca-Cola Santa Claus.
Outside of the holiday season, Moore worked as a taxi driver and a barman, but was also known to don a red suit and great white beard for charitable events.
