Reba McEntire Takes Center Stage as Host for NBC’s Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting 2023

In a dazzling announcement that has holiday enthusiasts buzzing, country music icon Reba McEntire is set to host the iconic Rockefeller Center tree lighting ceremony, airing live on NBC and Peacock on December 3, 2023. This year’s holiday special promises an unforgettable evening of music, lights, and festive cheer, with McEntire leading the festivities alongside a powerhouse lineup of performers. As the 91st annual event approaches, fans are already counting down to what could be one of the most memorable celebrations in recent years.

The news, revealed by NBCUniversal on October 10, 2023, highlights McEntire’s deep roots in American entertainment and her affinity for heartwarming traditions. Known for her powerhouse vocals and charismatic presence, the Oklahoma native brings a fresh yet nostalgic vibe to the Manhattan landmark. “I’m thrilled to be part of this magical moment,” McEntire said in a statement. “The Rockefeller Center tree lighting is more than just lights—it’s a symbol of joy and unity during the holiday season.”

Reba McEntire‘s Storied Path to Hosting the Rockefeller Tree Lighting

Reba McEntire‘s selection as host for the Rockefeller Center tree lighting is no surprise to those familiar with her illustrious career. Born in 1955 in McAlester, Oklahoma, McEntire grew up on a ranch, where she honed her skills as a barrel racer and singer. Her breakthrough came in the 1970s with hits like “Fancy” and “The Greatest Man I Never Knew,” establishing her as a cornerstone of country music. Over the decades, she has sold more than 75 million records worldwide, earned three Grammy Awards, and starred in Broadway’s “Annie Get Your Gun” revival in 2001.

McEntire’s television prowess adds another layer to her suitability for this role. She hosted her own sitcom, “Reba,” from 2001 to 2007, which garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. More recently, she judged on “The Voice” and starred in the ABC drama “Big Sky.” Her experience in live events is equally impressive; McEntire has headlined the CMA Awards multiple times and performed at high-profile galas. This holiday special marks her first time anchoring the Rockefeller Center tree lighting, a milestone that underscores her enduring appeal across generations.

Industry insiders point to McEntire’s versatility as a key factor. “Reba has that rare ability to connect with audiences on a personal level,” says entertainment analyst Sarah Thompson of Variety. “In an era of fragmented media, her hosting will draw in country fans, families, and casual viewers alike to NBC this December.” Statistics from past broadcasts support this optimism: The 2022 tree lighting drew 12.5 million viewers, a 15% increase from the previous year, according to Nielsen data. With McEntire at the helm, projections suggest viewership could climb even higher, potentially reaching 15 million.

McEntire’s personal connection to the holidays further enriches her role. In her memoir, “Not That Kind of Girl” (2017), she shares stories of ranch Christmases filled with music and family gatherings. “Holidays were always about creating memories,” she reflected in an interview with People magazine. This sentiment aligns perfectly with the spirit of the Rockefeller Center tree lighting, which has evolved from a simple 1931 lighting into a global symbol of festive wonder.

Announcing the All-Star Musical Lineup for NBC’s Holiday Spectacle

The excitement for the December 3 broadcast intensifies with the reveal of an all-star musical lineup joining Reba McEntire for the Rockefeller Center tree lighting. Performers include Grammy-winning artist Chloe Bailey, pop sensation Pentatonix, and Broadway star Ariana DeBose, each bringing their unique flair to the stage. Additional acts like the Radio City Rockettes and a surprise guest from the country genre are teased, ensuring a diverse mix of holiday classics and contemporary hits.

Chloe Bailey, known for her work with Chloe x Halle and solo tracks like “Have Mercy,” will deliver soulful renditions that blend R&B with festive tunes. Pentatonix, the a cappella group with over 20 million albums sold, promises their signature harmonies on songs like “Hallelujah” and “Little Drummer Boy.” Ariana DeBose, fresh off her Oscar-nominated role in “West Side Story,” will infuse Broadway energy, potentially performing numbers from her upcoming projects. “This lineup captures the essence of holiday magic—diverse voices uniting under the Rockefeller Center glow,” McEntire enthused during a press conference.

Historical context adds depth to this year’s selections. Past tree lighting events have featured legends like Mariah Carey (2006), Idina Menzel (2013), and Kelly Clarkson (2017), each boosting ratings and social media buzz. In 2022, performances by BTS and the Jonas Brothers generated over 500,000 Instagram posts with #RockefellerTreeLighting. NBC, which has aired the special since 1997, continues its tradition of curating lineups that appeal to a broad demographic. A recent Nielsen report indicates that holiday specials like this one skew toward families, with 60% of viewers aged 18-49 tuning in live.

Behind the curation, producers aimed for inclusivity. “We’re thrilled to showcase emerging talents alongside established stars,” said executive producer Brad Lachman. This approach mirrors McEntire’s own career trajectory, from small-town performer to entertainment titan. Fans can expect interactive elements too, such as audience sing-alongs and virtual reality tie-ins via Peacock, enhancing the holiday special‘s reach.

Behind-the-Scenes Magic at Rockefeller Center’s Iconic Tree Unveiling

Preparing for the Rockefeller Center tree lighting is a logistical marvel that transforms New York City’s midtown into a holiday epicenter. This year’s tree, a majestic 75-foot Norway spruce sourced from Vestal, New York, was felled on November 9, 2023, in a ceremony attended by local dignitaries. Measuring 12 feet in diameter and weighing approximately 50 tons, it will be adorned with 50,000 multicolored LED lights and a sustainable Swarovski crystal star weighing 900 pounds.

The journey of the tree to Rockefeller Center is a story in itself. Transported via flatbed truck along a 170-mile route, it arrives amid fanfare, with police escorts and roadside celebrations. Once in place, a team of 20 arborists and decorators spends weeks installing the lights, a process that consumes over 45,000 feet of wiring. Sustainability is a priority: The tree is recycled post-season into mulch for NYC parks, a practice initiated in 2007 that has diverted thousands of tons from landfills.

Reba McEntire‘s involvement extends beyond the stage. She’ll participate in pre-lighting rehearsals, coordinating with the production crew to ensure seamless transitions. “I’ve always admired the behind-the-scenes dedication,” McEntire shared on her social media. The event’s production, handled by TKO Group Holdings (formerly WME/IMG), involves 200 staff members and a budget exceeding $5 million, covering pyrotechnics, sound systems, and live streaming tech.

Weather plays a pivotal role; last year’s unseasonably warm 50-degree night allowed for comfortable viewing, but contingency plans for snow or rain are in place. Security is heightened post-9/11, with NYPD presence and bag checks for the 1,000 in-person attendees. For the NBC broadcast, directed by Louis J. Horvitz (seven-time Emmy winner), multiple cameras capture every angle, from aerial drone shots to intimate performer close-ups.

The holiday special‘s global impact is undeniable. In 2022, international streams on Peacock reached 2 million viewers from 50 countries, per NBCUniversal analytics. This year, with McEntire’s star power, expect amplified engagement through TikTok challenges and AR filters promoting #RebaLightsUpRockefeller.

Rockefeller Center’s Enduring Legacy in Holiday Entertainment

The Rockefeller Center tree lighting isn’t just an event—it’s a cultural institution that has illuminated American holidays for over nine decades. Launched in 1931 during the Great Depression as a morale booster, the first tree was a modest 20-foot balsam fir decorated with 700 lights. Today, it stands as the blueprint for urban holiday celebrations, inspiring similar events in cities like Chicago and London.

Ownership by Tishman Speyer since 2000 has modernized the tradition while preserving its charm. The complex, a National Historic Landmark, attracts 125 million visitors annually, with the tree drawing peak crowds of 10,000 on lighting night. Economic impact is significant: The event generates $15 million in local revenue through tourism, per a 2022 NYU study, supporting 500 jobs in setup and hospitality.

Reba McEntire‘s hosting injects a country twist into this urban spectacle. Her performance of originals like “Back to God” alongside classics such as “Jingle Bells” will bridge genres. Past hosts like Matt Lauer (1990s) and Jimmy Fallon (2010s) brought comedic flair, but McEntire’s warmth promises emotional depth. “Reba embodies the heart of the holidays,” notes historian Michael Kammen in his book “The Lights That Failed.”

Challenges have tested the tradition’s resilience. The 2020 virtual edition due to COVID-19 drew 8 million viewers, proving adaptability. Inclusivity efforts have grown, with diverse performers reflecting America’s mosaic. For 2023, accessibility features include ASL interpreters and audio descriptions on NBC, ensuring broader participation.

Philanthropy ties in too: Proceeds from merchandise sales benefit the Rockefeller Foundation’s holiday initiatives, raising $1.2 million last year for food banks. McEntire, a longtime supporter of causes like the Reba’s Place foundation, aligns with this ethos, potentially announcing a donation during the show.

Looking Ahead: How Reba McEntire’s Hosting Could Redefine Holiday Traditions

As December 3 approaches, Reba McEntire‘s role in the Rockefeller Center tree lighting signals a new chapter for the holiday special. Viewers can anticipate not just lights and music, but moments of inspiration amid global uncertainties. With streaming on Peacock, the event will transcend time zones, fostering virtual watch parties worldwide.

Post-event, McEntire’s tour schedule—kicking off with her residency at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace—may incorporate tree lighting highlights, extending the buzz. NBC plans encore airings and digital exclusives, keeping the magic alive. Industry forecasts from Deloitte predict holiday programming will see a 20% viewership uptick in 2023, driven by stars like McEntire.

For families, the special offers a beacon of togetherness. “In tough times, traditions like this remind us of what’s important,” McEntire told Entertainment Tonight. As the tree’s lights flicker on, expect a ripple effect: Increased donations to holiday charities, surged album sales for performers, and a renewed appreciation for live entertainment. This year’s celebration could set a benchmark, blending country soul with urban glamour for years to come.

The anticipation builds daily, with Rockefeller Plaza already twinkling in preparation. Tune in to NBC at 8 p.m. ET for an evening that promises to light up hearts as brightly as the tree itself.