'You came back': E.T. returns to earth 37 years after popping up in smash 1982 movie

E.T. has returned to earth after 37 years.

In a heartwarming advertisement that was screened in the United States during Thanksgiving on Thursday (Nov 28), the lovable character, made famous in 1982 movie E.T. The Extra-terrestrial, reunites with another character, Elliott, from that film.

Henry Thomas, who portrays Elliott in the movie, reprises the role in the advertisement to plug the telco services of Comcast.

The commercial, played out as a short film, shows the alien returning to reconnect with Elliott, who says excitedly: "You came back."

"A lot has changed since you were here," he tells E.T., revealing that he is married with two kids now.

The family members bring E.T. up to date with advances such as the Internet and a virtual reality headset that sends the alien falling backwards in surprise when he uses it.

The advertisement also rides on past delights by recycling an iconic scene from the movie, with E.T. and his new pals sharing a bicycle ride across the moon.

The 1982 film, directed by Steven Spielberg, has been ranked the 24th greatest movie of all time by the American Film Institute.

According to trade publication Variety, Spielberg gave the go-ahead for the commercial, won over by its concept of reunions during the festive season.