Mariah Carey to make radio presenting debut this Christmas

It's a World Exclusive show hosted for BBC Radio 2.

On Christmas Day, global superstar Mariah Carey makes her radio presenting debut in a world exclusive for BBC Radio 2. The hour-long festive show marks the 30th anniversary of her iconic hit All I Want For Christmas Is You, the most-streamed Christmas song of all time. Mariah, often dubbed the "Queen of Christmas," has enjoyed an extraordinary career with over 200 million records sold worldwide, 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 (the most for any solo artist), and a five-octave vocal range that has defined a generation of music. Her Radio 2 debut adds another glittering milestone to her illustrious journey.

Other festive highlights on Radio 2

The celebrations continue with Si King of The Hairy Bikers fame hosting a Christmas Rock special, bringing the energy of air guitar and motorcycle revving to the airwaves. Reverend Kate Bottley, Anneka Rice, Jane McDonald, and Gary Davies will also be live on Christmas Day, along with Mark Goodier, presenting a festive edition of Pick of the Pops. In the evening, Beverley Knight shares her gospel magic, and Trevor Nelson delivers soulful sounds straight from the Royal Albert Hall.

As the year winds down, special editions of Sounds of the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s build excitement for New Year’s Eve, with Michelle Visage broadcasting live from Los Angeles to ring in 2025.

On New Year’s Day, the station honours Elvis Presley to mark what would have been his 90th birthday on 8 January 2025. Superfan Vernon Kay hosts Your Ultimate Elvis Song, a Top 40 countdown voted for by Radio 2 listeners. Further Elvis tributes from Cerys Matthews and Owain Wyn Evans celebrate the King’s legendary career.

Many of these programmes will be available starting in November as part of the BBC Radio 2 Christmas Collection on BBC Sounds, ensuring listeners can enjoy the magic of the season at their leisure.