Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s performance on New Year’s Eve has sparked quite the reaction from viewers, with many finding the show a bit of an “awkward and breathless mess.”
The singer kicked off 2025 with a star-studded performance, but while some praised her effort, others weren’t as kind, and their reactions flooded social media.
The Show’s Highs and Lows
As the nation counted down to the new year, Sophie performed a medley of her hits, including duets with Jessie Ware, Jake Shears of Scissor Sisters, and The Last Dinner Party.
However, while some fans were thrilled by her performance, others were quick to voice their dissatisfaction.
On X (formerly Twitter), several viewers shared their frustration, calling out Sophie’s breathless performance and suggesting she should just lip-sync to improve her stage presence.
One post read, “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.”
Another tweet humorously compared the performance to a karaoke session at a local bar, saying, “This Sophie Ellis-Bextor performance on the BBC wouldn’t be out of place in the local on karaoke Thursdays. Absolute pony.”
Some even questioned the show’s quality, remarking that the TV options for New Year’s Eve might have made people prefer going to bed early.
Supporters Speak Up
Despite the backlash, Sophie had her fair share of supporters.
Some viewers defended her performance, calling her “such a babe” and praising her energy.
Posts like “Loving Sophie Ellis-Bextor.
Happy New Year everyone” and “Sophie Ellis-Bextor absolutely going for it with the leg kick routine” showed appreciation for her enthusiasm and stage presence.
Others, who may not have been familiar with her music before, found themselves enjoying her New Year’s Eve concert, with one tweet saying, “I’ve never really known much about Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s music, but this NYE concert is epic!”
Sophie’s Big Year and BBC One’s New Year’s Eve Plans
Sophie Ellis-Bextor has had a remarkable year, with sold-out tours across Europe, the United States, and Australia, alongside numerous festival appearances, including a standout performance with Peggy Gou at Glastonbury Festival.
So, it’s no surprise that the BBC chose Sophie to headline their New Year’s Eve Spectacular.
The event was designed to celebrate the end of 2024 with Sophie’s infectious energy and musical hits.
In a statement back in November, Sophie expressed her excitement about hosting the New Year’s Eve celebration.
She told BBC Radio 2, “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!” She also promised some “special surprises” and expressed her honor in ringing in 2025 with her fans.
“Get your disco shoes ready! I’ll be wearing mine,” she said.
Looking Forward to 2025
For Sophie Ellis-Bextor, 2024 was a year to remember, and it seems like she’s ready to embrace the excitement of 2025.
While opinions about her New Year’s Eve show may vary, there’s no doubt that she’s bringing her trademark energy and flair into the new year.
Whether you loved it or found it a bit awkward, Sophie’s performance certainly sparked conversation and brought some disco magic to the night.