Reba McEntire is getting ready to deck the halls and light up New York City like only she can.
The iconic country star is trading in cowboy boots for snow boots this December as she steps into the spotlight as host of NBC’s legendary Christmas in Rockefeller Center special. The announcement came just as fall begins to fade, proving once again that the holiday season is about to get a whole lot more country.
Set to air live on Wednesday, December 3, at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on NBC and also stream on Peacock, the annual tree lighting event has been a holiday tradition since 1933. This year, Reba will guide us through the star-studded evening while also taking the stage to perform. She is taking over the reins from her friend Kelly Clarkson, who handled hosting duties the past two years.
Fans lit up social media when the news broke. One person wrote that this is one of their favorite holiday programs and that Reba would be amazing. Another simply said Reba is the perfect host. Even a few celebrities joined the excitement, showing love for the country icon stepping into the role.
Reba herself could not be more thrilled. In an interview with People, she shared that she has never been to New York City in December. She said she has always wanted to be part of the tree lighting ceremony and was honored to be asked. Of course, she knows what kind of weather to expect and joked about her plan to triple or quadruple layer, adding that she will probably be wearing a heated vest and insulated underwear to survive the cold.
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This new gig adds to an already stacked year for Reba at NBC. She is currently winning fans over as a coach on The Voice, where they have affectionately nicknamed her the red-lip rebel. She is also returning to her sitcom Happy’s Place, which is kicking off its second season on November 7.
Reba has long been associated with Christmas. Her holiday albums, such as Merry Christmas to You, The Secrets of Giving, and My Kind of Christmas, are still spinning every December. She also hosted CMA Country Christmas in 2017 and 2018, bringing warmth and her signature humor to living rooms across the country. Hosting Christmas in Rockefeller Center is just another way she continues to be a part of America’s holiday season.
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The musical lineup for this year’s show has not yet been revealed, but if history repeats itself, it will be a night to remember. Past performances have included artists like Dan and Shay, Little Big Town, Jennifer Hudson, and even the Backstreet Boys. Add Reba’s name to the mix, and it is already a must-watch event.
So get ready to pour a mug of hot chocolate and gather around the TV. When the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lights up this December, Reba McEntire will be right there leading the celebration. She is bringing Nashville grit, timeless class, and that undeniable country spirit to the heart of New York City. This is one holiday tradition you do not want to miss.
