The renowned satirical cartoonist known as First Dog on the Moon has released its annual Christmas message for 2025, offering a characteristically sharp and whimsical take on the year's events through its unique illustrated format.
A Tradition of Illustrated Commentary
Published on 19 December 2025, the latest instalment continues a long-standing tradition where the anonymous cartoonist, operating under the banner of The First Dog on the Moon Institute, uses anthropomorphic animal characters and witty dialogue to dissect contemporary politics and culture. The cartoon serves as an alternative Christmas address, blending humour with pointed social and political observation.
The work is a staple of The Guardian's Comment is Free section, where it has built a dedicated readership for its ability to tackle complex and often grim news cycles with a blend of absurdity and empathy. The 2025 message follows this successful formula, capturing the mood of the year in a series of illustrated panels.
Content and Themes of the 2025 Message
While the specific narrative of each cartoon is visual, the 2025 message is understood to reflect on the major headlines and societal shifts of the past twelve months. Typical themes for the cartoonist include environmental concerns, political manoeuvring, social justice issues, and the general state of human (and animal) affairs.
The genius of First Dog on the Moon lies in presenting heavyweight topics through a deceptively simple lens, often featuring penguins, bats, possums, and other creatures expressing the frustrations and hopes of the era. The Christmas message is particularly anticipated as it provides a condensed, reflective overview, offering both a critique of and a respite from the year's news.
The release date, just days before Christmas, positions it as a counterpoint to more traditional and formal seasonal broadcasts. It provides a space for readers to engage with current events through laughter and recognition, rather than solemnity alone.
Impact and Cultural Significance
The continued popularity of the First Dog on the Moon Christmas message underscores a public appetite for satire that is both intelligent and accessible. In an era of dense information and polarised debate, the cartoon's format cuts through noise, using visual metaphor and animal allegory to make poignant statements.
Its publication in a major outlet like The Guardian ensures it reaches a wide audience, contributing to the cultural and political discourse in a unique way. The cartoon does not merely joke about the news; it reframes it, encouraging readers to see familiar events from new and often hilariously insightful perspectives.
As 2025 draws to a close, this illustrated message stands as a cultural artefact—a snapshot of the year's anxieties and triumphs, processed through a singularly creative mind. It reminds audiences of the power of art and humour to process, challenge, and endure the complexities of modern life, making it a fitting, if unconventional, addition to the seasonal landscape.
