Netflix is stepping up its game this Christmas, launching its inaugural NFL Christmas Gameday on December 25, 2024. This much-anticipated event marks the streaming giant's first foray to live-stream NFL games, perfectly coinciding with the holiday spirit.
Fans can enjoy two exciting matchups: the Kansas City Chiefs will square off against the Pittsburgh Steelers, followed by the Baltimore Ravens facing the Houston Texans. With kickoffs set for 1 p.m. ET and 4:30 p.m. ET, respectively, this is bound to become a new holiday tradition.
The day's entertainment lineup promises to be spectacular, featuring world-renowned artists. To kick things off, Mariah Carey is set to perform her iconic holiday song, "All I Want for Christmas Is You," before the Chiefs vs. Steelers game. Meanwhile, fans are abuzz over the halftime show featuring Beyoncé, who will grace the field during the Ravens vs. Texans game, marking her first live performance of tracks from her record-breaking album, "Cowboy Carter."
Each game will have its host of commentators and analysts. For the pregame show and halftime segments, viewers will see familiar faces like Kay Adams, Drew Brees, Robert Griffin III, and Manti Te'o sharing insights and banter from their studios.
Netflix's transition from binge-watching series to live sports is anticipated to create significant buzz, especially as both games will also be airing on CBS locally across the teams' markets, ensuring fans have multiple ways to catch the action. All you need is a Netflix subscription, and you'll have full access to the games and the accompanying festivities.
According to Mirror Sport, "Netflix has 'Santa Cena' to thank for getting NFL Christmas Gameday" off to a joyful start. The promotional video features John Cena as Santa Claus stressing out over the NFL's wish list for the holiday season, bringing laughter and cheer to viewers before the serious football action begins.
Both games are not only significant for their on-field action but also for the synergy between sports and entertainment. The collaboration aims to expand both Netflix's and the NFL's audience reach, especially on such a beloved holiday.
After all, the tradition of NFL games on Christmas Day has been around since 1971, and it has evolved over the decades to include some of the most competitive matchups of the season. With the Chiefs aiming to defend their championship title and the Texans and Ravens bringing fresh talent and exciting playstyles, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Netflix's foray in sports began with the success of their sports docuseries, including 'Quarterback' earlier this year, which captivated football fans and laid the groundwork for this live-streaming venture. The company has entered a three-year deal with the NFL, promising at least one game every Christmas day until 2026.
This year, fans waiting for the adrenaline of the holiday football matches can tune in directly on Netflix, which will allow viewers to interact and experience the same thrill of match day from home. And for those who are accustomed to viewing NFL games through traditional means, the simultaneous broadcast on CBS is bound to keep everyone satisfied.
To catch all the action this Christmas, fans are encouraged to log on to Netflix, where they can find the games prominently displayed on their home page, or simply look for "NFL" and enjoy the incredible festive lineup prepared for them.
Whether it's Mariah Carey’s jingle to get everyone hyped before the matches or Beyoncé's spectacular performance during halftime, Netflix is determined to deliver a festive football experience audiences will not forget. The blending of music and sports entertainment on Christmas Day creates both excitement and community, encouraging fans to embrace the holiday cheer surrounding America's favorite pastime.
With everything set for this festive football gala on Christmas Day, fans can expect nothing short of extraordinary performances, thrilling games, and perhaps, some unforgettable moments to cherish for years to come.