*Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey will host NBC’s holiday special “A Motown Christmas” which is set to air just in time for Christmas.
The concert event will feature Motown legends performing a selection of the iconic label’s hits. Billboard reports that the lineup includes Gladys Knight, Martha Reeves & the Vandellas and the Temptations. Several contemporary artists will also share the stage and serve up some holiday favorites, including Ashanti, Andra Day, BeBe Winans, Jamie Foxx, JoJo, Jordin Sparks, mgk, October London, and Pentatonix.
The special will pay tribute to Motown founder Berry Gordy and feature a world-exclusive performance from the Broadway company of “MJ the Musical.” Motown hits include “Tears of a Clown,” “Stop (In the Name of Love),” “Superstition,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” — all of which (and more) will be performed during the televised special.
In a statement, NBCUniversal Entertainment’s executive vp of live events & specials Jen Neal said, “Motown’s timeless hits have played as a soundtrack for American families for the last six decades. NBC is honored to spotlight the iconic legacy of Motown with a festive celebration for the holiday season.”
“A Motown Christmas” is executive produced by Debbie Allen and former Motown Productions president Suzanne de Passe. It will air Dec. 11 (9 p.m. ET/PT) on NBC and the next day on Peacock.
“I’m thrilled to be back in the saddle with Motown and Suzanne de Passe to bring to the world this much-needed holiday family special,” Allen said. “The music of Motown has always been magical, and we are going to sing and dance everyone into Christmas joy!”
Joe Braswell and Steve Barry are executive producing the Motown holiday special with Courtney Whitaker as co-executive producer for SpringHill.
“We’re excited to usher in the holiday spirit by bringing nostalgic performances and fresh renditions of Motown hits to homes across the world,” said SpringHill CCO Jamal Henderson.
“I’m delighted to join Debbie Allen, SpringHill and NBC to bring Motown music, great artists and warm, family feelings together in a grand celebration of Christmas” de Passe added.
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