December 31st 2024.
As the New Year approaches, it's hard not to think of the iconic annual event that marks its arrival – Jools Holland's Annual Hootenanny. For many, this beloved TV show has become a staple of New Year's Eve celebrations, featuring an impressive lineup of big-name musicians and rising stars as they come together to welcome in the next 12 months.
But, year after year, viewers are left shocked by a secret that many are unaware of. Despite its appearance of being a live broadcast, the Hootenanny is actually filmed well in advance and then aired on New Year's Eve, complete with a countdown to midnight and a rousing performance of Auld Lang Syne. In the BBC's defense, they have described the show as an "idealized New Year's Eve party," with a lineup that would be impossible to deliver on the actual December 31st.
However, this revelation has not gone unnoticed by some viewers. In fact, it was Sir Rod Stewart himself who accidentally gave the game away during his performance on the last Hootenanny to ring in 2024. And, with the rise of social media, more and more people are catching on to the "secret" of the show's pre-recorded nature.
While some fans were disappointed and even outraged by this news, others were quick to defend the show's decision to pre-record. After all, it guarantees a stellar lineup each year and eliminates the risk of any last-minute cancellations or mishaps. But, for some, the idea of watching a "live" event that was actually filmed weeks earlier just doesn't sit right.
Despite the mixed reactions, one thing is for sure – Jools Holland's Annual Hootenanny continues to be a highly anticipated and beloved tradition for many. So, whether you're tuning in for the first time or have been a longtime fan, don't forget to catch this year's show as it airs on BBC Two on Wednesday, December 31 at 11:30pm. And, if you happen to miss it, you can always stream it on BBC iPlayer afterwards.
This article was originally published on January 1, 2024, but the Hootenanny magic lives on year after year. Have a celebrity story or photos to share? Get in touch with our entertainment team through email, phone, or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we would love to hear from you.
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