Apple TV+ surprised fans this holiday season with the release of A Carpool Karaoke Christmas, featuring pop music’s leading ladies Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, and Chappell Roan. The hour-long special, which debuted on Sunday night at 9 p.m. PT and midnight ET, delights viewers with holiday classics and original hits, showcasing the artists’ engaging performances and heartfelt interactions.
Hosted by Zane Lowe, who took over the driver’s seat from the show’s creator James Corden, the special marks the comeback of the beloved franchise after it concluded its fifth season on Apple TV+ 18 months ago. Corden expressed his excitement, stating, "I’m delighted Carpool Karaoke is back to celebrate the holidays in true style," adding he reminded Lowe to keep his eyes open as he sings.
The format allows for beautiful moments as the trio travels through notable locations: Lowe drives Roan around her hometown of Springfield, Missouri, takes Dua Lipa on Christmas shopping adventures in Tokyo, and shuttles Lady Gaga through Los Angeles. Each artist sings both festive songs and their well-known hits. The unique blend of nostalgia and modern pop resonates through classics like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “Last Christmas,” alongside original tracks like Gaga’s “Die With a Smile” and Roan’s “Good Luck.”
One of the standout moments includes Gaga’s original Christmas song. During her segment, she disclosed her preference for holiday music, expressing her desire for wholesome and sentimental tunes. "You know, a song the whole family can get together and sing," she remarked before breaking out her sultry hit, "Christmas Tree," which playfully mixes holiday cheer with cheeky lyrics. This daring performance shows Gaga’s unique ability to intertwine her artistic persona with traditional holiday vibes.
Chappell Roan’s segment reveals the emotional depth behind her craft. Surrounded by family, she introduces Lowe to her parents, and they sing together, showcasing their close bond. "We love her so much and we’re so proud of what she does and who she is...," Roan’s mom, Kara, shares. The reflections embody the pride and admiration families often feel for their artists. Roan openly discusses her more conservative upbringing and how it has shaped her identity, saying, "For me, [growing up religious] almost did the opposite... I felt like I couldn’t be myself, and I was going to hell no matter how good of a person I was or how much I loved God."
This emotional clarity brings authenticity to her performance, connecting with audiences on deep levels. Roan also emphasizes the importance of dialogue, stating, "The door has to be open or there is no learning." Her viewpoints resonate with viewers who have traversed similar journeys of self-discovery.
Throughout the special, unexpected cameos add to the charm, such as the surprise appearance by Brian Johnson of AC/DC. He joins Gaga and Lowe during their car ride, which sparks delightful memories as Gaga shares her experience of being featured as an extra in AC/DC’s music video at age 17. This reminiscing adds another touch of whimsy to the holiday spirit.
With visuals of Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Springfield, the special paints vivid pictures of holiday celebrations. Lipa’s energetic participation shines during her Christmas shopping scene, where she reflects on her childhood dream of performing on stage, saying, "I want to be on stage. I want to perform. I want to do rooms like this." Her connection to her roots gives way to musical ambition, creating inspiring moments for her fans.
Notably, Lowe expressed, "This was hands-down the most fun I have ever had in a car," summing up the joy and excitement the special encapsulates. The variety of singing styles, heartfelt moments, and humorous exchanges make for compelling television. The show not only entertains but fosters connection among performers and their audiences, offering something truly universal—sharing music during the holidays.
The holiday special A Carpool Karaoke Christmas is now streaming for viewers, with its global release planned for December 20. It is expected to deliver cheer and music, rekindling the festive spirit with every performance. Accompanying the arrival of the special is the release of Gaga’s new take on the classic, “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town,” which adds to the holiday musical repertoire available across streaming platforms.
Produced by CBS Studios and Fulwell 73 Productions, Carpool Karaoke: The Series continues to delight and surprise fans, blending humor, music, and star power seamlessly. With pop icons and heartfelt stories, this holiday edition is set to become another cherished favorite.
