This Christmas, BBC Two and BBC Music celebrate the 40th anniversary of WHAM!'s iconic holiday classic, "Last Christmas," with a captivating documentary that delves into the song's remarkable journey to global acclaim. Brimming with exclusive interviews, rare footage, and heartfelt recollections, this special promises to be a must-watch for music enthusiasts and Christmas lovers alike.

A Timeless Yuletide Treasure

The Enduring Appeal of a Christmas Classic

WHAM!'s "Last Christmas" has cemented its place as one of the all-time great festive songs, captivating audiences for four decades. With over four billion audio streams, one billion video views, and six-times Platinum sales in the UK and USA, the track has topped the charts in 16 countries, solidifying its status as a true cultural phenomenon. Its enduring appeal transcends generations, resonating with listeners young and old, and inspiring new fans to discover its magic year after year.The documentary delves into the compelling inside story behind the song's creation and lasting impact. Featuring a cast of prominent artists, music producers, and industry experts, the special offers a unique perspective on the creative brilliance of George Michael and the long-held secrets that have surrounded the much-loved music video. Fans will delight in new interviews with Andrew Ridgeley, Pepsi DeMacque-Crockett, and Shirlie Kemp, as well as archival footage of George Michael himself, providing a rare and intimate glimpse into the making of this beloved masterpiece.

Revisiting the Iconic Music Video

The documentary's highlight promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime reunion with the genuine group of close friends who appeared in the original "Last Christmas" music video. Returning to the stunning snow-covered backdrop of Saas-Fee, Switzerland, where the video was filmed, Andrew, Pepsi, Shirlie, and their friends will reveal exclusive, never-before-heard stories from the set, shedding new light on the iconic imagery that has captivated fans for decades.Viewers will be treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the video's production, including the discovery of the fate of the legendary diamanté brooch that featured prominently in the footage. The Mayor of Saas-Fee, who served as the band's driver during the original shoot, will also share his firsthand accounts of the experience, adding a unique perspective to the enduring legacy of the video.

Exploring the Song's Themes and Significance

The documentary delves deeper into the musical and lyrical analysis of "Last Christmas," exploring the song's themes of unrequited love and loss. Fans and friends, including Mary J. Blige, Sir Bob Geldof, Neil Tennant, and Sam Smith, offer their insights on the emotional resonance and cultural impact of this timeless holiday classic.Through rare and exclusive archive footage, the special promises to unveil a world exclusive first broadcast of George Michael performing "Last Christmas" at Wembley Arena in December 2006, as well as never-before-seen outtakes from the original 35mm music video. Viewers will also be treated to a glimpse into George and Andrew's personal photographs, adding a personal touch to the celebration of this beloved song.

A Heartfelt Tribute to a Christmas Legend

As Andrew Ridgeley eloquently states, "It's a privilege, 40 years on, to be able to have this opportunity to celebrate WHAM!'s wonderful and enduring musical homage to Christmas." The documentary serves as a heartfelt tribute to the song, the video, and the individuals who contributed to its lasting legacy.George Michael's songwriting genius is celebrated, with the documentary exploring how he managed to distill the quintessential essence of Christmas into a song that has resonated with listeners across generations. The special offers fans a chance to relive the magic and gain fresh insights into the making of this beloved masterpiece, allowing them to share in the enduring legacy of "Last Christmas" with the world.With its captivating storytelling, exclusive access, and emotional resonance, "WHAM!: Last Christmas Unwrapped" promises to be an unforgettable tribute to one of the greatest holiday songs of all time, cementing its place as a must-watch for music enthusiasts and Christmas enthusiasts alike.