Kelly Clarkson Lined Up as Host & Performer for NBC’s ‘Christmas in Rockefeller Center’

Kelly Clarkson will be booked and busy throughout the end of 2023. Just one week after returning with season 5 of her namesake talk show — now filmed at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City — the American Idol alum will pull double-duty as host and performer for NBC’s annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center telecast.

During the Wednesday (Oct. 26) episode of her program, Clarkson revealed the news and reflected on performing at the televised tree-lighting ceremony two decades ago. “I had the opportunity to perform for my first time in NBC’s Christmas in Rockefeller Center 20 years ago, and I am stoked to reveal that I’m getting the chance to do it again, and this time, at my new home in 30 Rock,” she told the audience. “And I’m not just singing, I’m actually gonna host the whole thing!”

In a press release about Clarkson’s gig, the “Underneath the Tree” singer said, “I’m so excited to consider this city and Rockefeller Center my new home, and I can’t imagine a better way to kick off Christmas this year than to be a part of this beautiful New York tradition with the lighting of the tree!” 

Jen Neal, executive vice president, live events and specials, NBCUniversal Media Group added, “The lighting of that magnificent tree at Rockefeller Center is one of the true joys of the holiday season and to have Kelly both host and perform feels like we’re getting our Christmas presents early this year.”

The seven-time Grammy winner will have a host of holiday tracks to choose from for her performance, including beloved holiday classics and originals from her two Christmas albums: 2013’s Wrapped in Red and 2021’s When Christmas Comes Around… Additiona; performers for the special will be announced at a later date.

Christmas in Rockefeller Center will air Wednesday, Nov. 29, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and will stream on Peacock.

Watch Clarkson’s announcement in the video above.