After recently wrapping filming on a major international Christmas drama for a leading US network, 18-year-old Ethan Thorne is turning his attention to music, reviving a family Christmas track to support young people and seriously ill children this festive season.
At the end of November, Ethan will release two versions of “Sugar Snow”, a song written and recorded by his father, Steve “Thorn” Thorne, years before he was born. Though never officially released, the track became a cult festive favourite after being played every December for more than two decades by Radio X’s John Kennedy, who describes the new version as “a more mature realisation of the original.”
For the first time, listeners will be able to stream both the Thorn Club Mix and a reimagined version produced with writer/musician Jason McKenzie, with Ethan on lead vocals.
Keeping it in the family, Ethan’s sister Lara — a member of Croydon Youth Theatre Organisation (CYTO) — features on backing vocals.
“I was really fortunate to receive a scholarship and bursary that made it possible for me to study at Trinity School, Croydon, where I had so many opportunities to grow as both an actor and a musician,” says Ethan. “Not everyone gets that chance, so it feels important to give something back. CYTO does incredible work giving young people opportunities in the arts. Deciding to rework Sugar Snow felt like the perfect way to support them — and when my mum made the video featuring CYTO members, it became a real family project.”
A portion of the proceeds from the release will support CYTO, the volunteer-led youth theatre that has become central to the Thorne family’s life. In the same spirit of giving back, another portion will go to WellChild, supporting the Long-term Ventilation Team at St George’s Hospital — a service that has been life-changing for Jason’s grandson, who relies on nightly ventilation to stay healthy and live at home. Without this extraordinary team, many children with complex medical needs would face months — even years — in hospital rather than growing up surrounded by family.
“Sugar Snow” will be released worldwide on Friday 28 November 2025 on streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music, with the official music video premiering on YouTube the same day.
With its mix of nostalgia, family collaboration and community spirit, “Sugar Snow” promises to bring a touch of Croydon magic to the festive season — and with every stream or download, help support young performers and children with complex medical needs.