Common Sense Media Review
By Polly Conway
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Country star celebrates holidays with music, family.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
My Gift: A Christmas Special from Carrie Underwood
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Underwood sings a variety of traditional American holiday songs, including "Silent Night," "Oh Come All Ye Faithful" and "Ode to Joy," as well as her own original Christmas songs from the album. There's footage of Underwood in the studio working on My Gift, and some cute moments with her son Isaiah singing "The Little Drummer Boy." Viewers also get to see how the Underwood family celebrated Christmas growing up, and some history on Carrie life as a performer. Some of the songs are accompanied by a full orchestra, while others are backed by a gospel choir, and one featuring musician John Legend (La La Land) on piano and vocals.
Is It Any Good?
Fans of Underwood and holiday extravanzas will enjoy this glitzy but heartfelt special. It's pretty serious and reverent in tone (no goofy versions of "Jingle Bells" to be seen here), with many of the songs following a religious theme. The costume changes are fun to watch; in true country style, her dresses and earrings get more extravagant as the special goes on. Underwood can really belt it, and her vocal skills are fully on display here. Still, it's not the most exciting thing to watch, but it's pleasant and fans will be pleased. This special would be great for country fans to watch in the background of a holiday get-together or dinner.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about musical performances. What's special about seeing an artist perform versus just hearing them? Have you ever seen music played live? How did you feel?
Some people love holiday music, while others find it annoying. Which side do you fall on? Can you see the other?
How did Underwood persevere to get to this point (only very big stars get to have a holiday special!)? Why is perseverance important for a performer?
TV Details
- Premiere date : December 3, 2020
- Cast : Carrie Underwood , John Legend
- Network : Max
- Genre : Variety Show
- TV rating :
- Last updated : February 7, 2022
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