CBS is going full tinsel-and-eggnog with its holiday programming lineup, a festive barrage that includes everything from a Dua Lipa concert special to a new Ghosts Christmas two-parter. So, basically, something for everyone, assuming “everyone” falls within a very specific demographic.
Let’s start with the new stuff. Nugget is Dead? A Christmas Story, from the minds behind Colin From Accounts, sounds like it could be a darkly comedic gem about a woman forced to confront her chaotic family during the holidays. There’s also An Evening with Dua Lipa, which promises live performances and a duet with Elton John. That could be…interesting. Nate Bargatze is getting his own Nashville Christmas special, which will undoubtedly be more low-key than the network’s New Year’s Eve bash from Music City.
Speaking of which, New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash is back, with Keith Urban co-hosting and performances from Kane Brown, Jelly Roll, and more. Expect lots of sparkly outfits and forced enthusiasm as we collectively stumble into another year.
CBS isn’t just relying on new specials, though. They’re also giving us some familiar franchises. The Kennedy Center Honors will air on December 22nd, and various CBS procedural dramas like NCIS, NCIS: Hawai’i, and The Equalizer are getting holiday-themed episodes. Ghosts, meanwhile, will have a two-part Christmas special, which, depending on your tolerance for sitcom shenanigans, could be either a delightful treat or a sugar-induced headache.
Look, nobody is expecting groundbreaking television from a network holiday lineup. But if you’re looking for some easy viewing to accompany your eggnog-induced coma, CBS has you covered. Just maybe pace yourself. Too much festive cheer can be hazardous to your health.