On Christmas Eve 2024, legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli captivated audiences with his holiday special, Christmas with Andrea Bocelli and Friends: A Grammy® Holiday Special, which aired on CBS and streamed on Paramount+. The one-hour special was a celebration of music, family, and festive spirit, featuring a star-studded lineup of guests.
According to Yahoo Entertainment The program, part of Bocelli’s year-long 30th-anniversary celebration in the music industry, included performances by music heavyweights such as Dua Lipa, Jennifer Hudson, Josh Groban, and Sofia Carson. Adding a heartfelt touch were appearances by Bocelli’s wife, Veronica, and daughter, Virginia, who joined him for intimate musical moments that underscored the special’s family-oriented theme.
Filmed in breathtaking locations that enhanced the holiday atmosphere, the special blended classic Christmas carols with contemporary hits, each song delivered with Bocelli’s signature warmth and elegance. Highlights included a powerful duet of O Holy Night with Jennifer Hudson and a lively rendition of Jingle Bell Rock featuring Dua Lipa, which brought a modern edge to the classic tune.
“All my life, I’ve enjoyed entertaining people in person, on record, on film and on television, and to have the opportunity of doing so on CBS, where I have had many memorable appearances over the years and with the Recording Academy, which has been a supporter of classical music for decades, is quite exciting,” Bocelli said in a statement. “I am really looking forward to sharing performances with both friends and family on my own Christmas special.”
The production, helmed by Ken Ehrlich Productions in collaboration with Andrea Bocelli Management, was crafted to be a visually and sonically stunning experience. Executive producers Ken Ehrlich, Veronica Bocelli, Harvey Mason Jr., and Francesco Pasquero ensured the show carried the gravitas and elegance expected of a Bocelli production. With Julia Knowles directing and Branden Chapman producing, the special was a seamless blend of artistry and holiday cheer.
“With this special, we are not only celebrating the holidays, but also one of music’s greatest voices,” Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy said, as Billboard reported. “We invite families everywhere to tune in and enjoy the festive performances that Andrea and his amazing guests have in store for us all.”
For those who missed the broadcast, the special is now available for streaming on Paramount+, allowing audiences to revisit the magic of Christmas with one of the world’s most celebrated tenors.
