As Mariah Carey famously belts, “It’s tiiimmme!”— and this year, Apple TV is making spirits bright with its first-ever holiday special of Carpool Karaoke: A Carpool Karaoke Christmas, the Emmy-winning series dropped on December 15. The epsiode includes a string of iconic singalongs, heartfelt moments, and enough glitter to rival the Rockefeller Center tree. 

The festive special features none other than Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, and Chappell Roan as they hop into the iconic SUV with Apple Music host Zane Lowe. The catch? They’re not riding together but embarking on their own unique holiday-themed adventures across Missouri, Tokyo, and Los Angeles. 

The car itself got the holiday makeover – decked out with garlands, red ribbons, and Christmas cheer stitched into every leather seat. It’s the kind of mobile merriment that would make even Santa jealous.

Lady Gaga’s Festive Magic

Lady Gaga’s segment is nothing short of iconic, as she kicks things off with a trio performance of "Last Christmas” alongside Lipa and Roan. She doesn’t stop there. Gaga serves up her own rendition of her 2008 cult-favorite holiday bop “Christmas Tree,” with Lowe hilariously puzzled by its cheeky lyrics – “my Christmas tree’s delicious." 

Of course, Gaga wouldn’t be Gaga without a few surprises. AC/DC’s Brian Johnson joins her for an electric rendition of “Highway to Hell,” and in a touching throwback, Gaga recalls her appearance as an extra in the band’s “Stiff Upper Lip” video at age 17. She wraps her ride by jamming with Lowe on guitar to record a fresh version of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town."

Who else can turn a car ride into a recording studio?

Lady Gaga sang these songs for the new Carpool Karaoke:

— Last Christmas
— Disease
— Christmas Tree
— Highway To Hell
— Die With A Smile
— Shallow
— Santa Clause is Coming To Town pic.twitter.com/yC1ID5nGEP

— Lady Gaga Charts | Fan Account (@chartgaga) December 16, 2024

Dua Lipa in Tokyo—Holiday Style

Dua Lipa hops in for the Tokyo leg of the special, where she lights up the streets with a karaoke version of “Sleigh Ride” by The Ronettes. Between the Christmas crooning, Lipa reflects on her meteoric rise to stardom, revealing that a Katy Perry concert ignited her dream of performing on the world’s biggest stages.

And because it wouldn’t be Carpool Karaoke without a dance break, the singer hits the high notes of Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” while shopping for holiday gifts downtown. Fans on TikTok can’t get over her performance, commenting, “This is my Christmas wish granted!”

Chappell Roan Brings It Home

Chappell Roan’s journey is as heartwarming as a cup of cocoa by the fire. Opening the episode in her hometown of Springfield, Missouri, she takes Lowe on a tour of her family farm, where they meet a chicken hilariously named after Lady Gaga – cue the giggles.

But the emotions run deep when Chappell’s parents join the ride for a singalong of “Pink Pony Club” and “Last Christmas.” Her mother Kara wipes away tears, sharing, “We’ve always been proud of her, but seeing her bring people joy and hope? That’s everything.” Chappell’s dad, Dwight, adds, “She’s a beacon of inclusivity – and that’s what the world needs.”

Why It’s a Must-Watch This Christmas

A Carpool Karaoke Christmas isn’t just a show; it’s a sleigh ride through laughter, nostalgia, and yuletide magic. From Gaga’s powerhouse vocals to Lipa's  glitzy Tokyo shopping spree and Chappell’s tender family moments, there’s something for everyone in this one-hour special. Imagine hosting a holiday movie night with friends, sipping eggnog, and letting Gaga serenade you with “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.” Or picture your family huddled together laughing at Lowe’s attempts to keep up with Chappell’s farm tour. It’s the perfect blend of humor, heart, and holiday spirit to add to your Christmas watchlist.

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Fan Reactions Are the Bow on Top

Social media is already buzzing with fans unwrapping this festive treat. One fan gushed, “Lady Gaga singing ‘Christmas Tree’ in 2024?! My inner Little Monster is thriving!” Another exclaimed, “Dua in Tokyo? Gaga with AC/DC? Chappell Roan’s chicken named after Gaga? This is the early Christmas gift I didn’t know I needed!” The holiday-themed SUV even earned its share of applause, with a viewer declaring, “The SUV décor deserves its own Emmy. Red ribbons for the win!”

Over on TikTok, the excitement is equally holly jolly. Fans are raving, “Christmas Tree in 2024?! 🎄 Pinch me!!!” while others cheer, “Chappell wearing my corset on Carpool Karaoke?! Goals!” The show’s return is a major wish come true, with one hopeful fan pleading, “Is Carpool Karaoke back for good? PLEEEEASE.” (TikTok User Reactions).

A Carpool Karaoke Christmas is a gift wrapped in red velvet and tied with a bow. So grab your Santa hat, stream it on Apple TV, and let the holiday spirit take the wheel. 

Photo Creidt: @ladygaga