BBC New Year's Eve special with Sophie Ellis Bextor branded 'awkward' by viewers

Sophie Ellis Bextor's New Year's Eve TV special on the BBC drew mixed reactions, with some viewers describing the show as 'breathless, awkward and cringe. '

While some fans enjoyed the disco-themed special and commended the pop star for bringing the party to the occasion, others were less impressed, voicing their opinions on X.

The singer was joined by several musical guests for her BBC's New Year's Eve concert, including Jessie Ware, Scissor Sisters frontman Jake Shears, The Last Dinner Party guitarist Emily Roberts and gospel choir the MDL Singers.

The Groovejet singer, 45, performed her hits along with a few surprise numbers for the show titled Sophie Ellis-Bextor's NYE Disco, the Mirror reports.

One viewer commented: "What on earth is happening with the @BBCOne #NewYear show. Poor Sophie-Ellis Bextor can't even keep up with her own songs, a breathless mess. Just lip-sync and then you can at least nail the stage presence... this is cringe! "

Another added: "Maybe I'm getting old but I can see why folk who stay in on NYE go to bed if the TV offerings are Sophie Ellis-Bextor or Jools Holland."

"Who booked Sophie Ellis Bexter for New Year's Eve on BBC One? ? ? ? She has 1 song of her own and murdered everyone else's. Painful karaoke voice," another complained. However, others praised the pop star.

One wrote: "I've never really known much about Sophie Ellis Bextor's music, but this NYE concert is epic! In response to negative comments, one person hit back: "Why are so many Brits so f*cking miserable, jealous and rude? Slagging off the glittering and glamorous Sophie Ellis-Bextor as she discos into 2025. Cheer up you miserable losers!!! And happy New Year.

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Another fan heaped praise on the singer: "The way I love that Sophie Ellis Bextor has had a massive resurgence and has the whole world acknowledging her music tho. Bringing in the New Year while she throws a massive disco party on is definitely how want to be stepping into 2025!"

Anticipating the occasion, Sophie Ellis-Bextor remarked: "I always love a party and I immediately think of sparkles, singing and dancing for a New Year's Eve celebration, and that's what I'll be bringing with me for my BBC One performance this New Year!

"The band and I can't wait, and we have some special surprises planned. I'm so honoured to have been asked to bid a fond farewell to 2024 with you all, and to welcome in an exciting 2025 together. Get your disco shoes ready! I'll be wearing mine.."

Last New Year's Eve witnessed Rick Astley celebrating the arrival of 2024 alongside Sharleen Spiteri, Rylan and The House Gospel Choir. Notable former acts for the New Year celebrations include Eurovision's Sam Ryder, pop outfit Years And Years, American music sensation Alicia Keys, and RandB artist Craig David.

In October, Ellis-Bextor announced her most ambitious UK headline tour yet. Her hit 'Murder On The Dancefloor' made waves once again at the end of 2023 after being featured in Emerald Fennell's critically acclaimed film 'Saltburn'.

Sophie became a beacon of joy during the Covid-19 lockdowns, attracting new fans with her kitchen disco performances, which she streamed live from her home, singing and dancing with her family, and encouraging others to do the same.

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