Show-stopping duets and star-studded lineup includes Brett Eldredge, Ariana Grande and others
Grammy and Emmy Award-winning global superstar Kelly Clarkson’s love for the holiday season is no secret. She celebrates it all year long with “Ambush Christmas” segments on her award-winning daytime talk show as studio viewers and guests are treated to off-season snow, music and epic giveaways.
This year Clarkson is doubling down on the holiday spirit. Timed to the release of her new holiday album, the Kelly Clarkson Presents: When Christmas Comes Around holiday spectacular will air Wednesday, December 1st at 10 pm ET/PT on NBC.
The special will be filled with Clarkson’s new original songs as well as a curated list of iconic classics, dancing, superstar performances featuring My Band Y’All with a streamlined modern orchestra and remarkable duets. The stage at Universal Studios Hollywood will be designed to evoke timeless Christmas themes inspired by the power of song that change the viewers’ point of view – from fantastical worlds of being underneath the tree to a forest lit by the Northern Lights.
Brett Eldredge, Ariana Grande, Jay Leno, Melissa McCarthy, Leslie Odom Jr., Amy Poehler and the one-and-only Santa Claus will join Clarkson and some special everyday heroes with life-changing surprises.
“People celebrate the holidays in different ways and that is the inspiration behind the original songs and the curated classics that are featured in this special,” Clarkson says of the special. “No matter what your heart is feeling this holiday season, I hope that this hour brings you joy and happiness exactly where you are.”
Alex Duda and Kelly Clarkson are executive producers. Emmy winner Joe Terry directs.
The original music featured in the special is from Clarkson’s ninth studio album and second festive project, available now via Atlantic Records. The 15-track collection sees Clarkson reunite with long-time collaborators Jason Halbert, Jesse Shatkin and more for a mix of new original songs and Christmas classics. From the inspiring duet “Santa, Can’t You Hear Me,” featuring Ariana Grande, to the hauntingly beautiful ballad “Merry Christmas (to the One I Used to Know), the album explores a wide range of holiday emotions and experiences anchored by Clarkson’s vocal prowess. It also features cheerful standout “Glow,” featuring Chris Stapleton, and the fabulously bold lead single “Christmas Isn’t Canceled (Just You).”
The special is made possible by brand partner Wayfair, the one-stop shop for everything home. As part of their collaboration with the episode, Wayfair will be generously donating a reward to a deserving organization that helps support communities in need. It was also made possible by H.E.B, who were proud to donate to a local Texas story featured on the special.
