Imagine celebrating New Year's Eve in mid-December, surrounded by A-list musicians and a free bar, all while the outside world carries on as normal. This is the surreal and joyous reality for the audience of Jools Holland's legendary BBC Hootenanny, and we've been granted exclusive behind-the-scenes access.
The Magical Make-Believe of a Pre-Recorded Celebration
At 8.47pm on December 10th, inside the dazzling Versa Studios in West London, the countdown to 2026 began. For the gathered guests, including Mirror showbiz editor Mark Jefferies, it was time to sing, dance, and hug as if the real midnight had arrived. The 33rd edition of Jools Holland's Hootenanny, a festive staple as iconic as the Queen's Christmas speech, was being captured for its traditional BBC Two slot on December 31st.
The key to the authentic party atmosphere, according to Executive Producer Alison Howe, is complete immersion. Guests are encouraged to let themselves believe it truly is New Year's Eve, entering a "magical world" beyond the studio doors. The production aids this illusion with a rare BBC free bar and timely glasses of prosecco distributed to toast the "midnight" moment, which occurs roughly 30 minutes after filming commences.
A Star-Studded Line-Up and Backstage Mechanics
This year's musical bill is typically eclectic and impressive, featuring an array of talent from across the decades. The line-up includes:
- Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood
- Brit Award-winning soul singer Olivia Dean
- UK garage pioneer Craig David
- Legendary Scottish singer Lulu
- Pop powerhouse Jessie J
- Indie rockers The Kooks
- M People's Heather Small
- Irish vocalist Imelda May
- The 1st Battalion Scots Guards
Howe reveals that the running order is fluid, with several versions of the set list being adjusted right up until the recording day. For the artists, the invitation is a major honour. Luke Pritchard, frontman of The Kooks, described it as "nerve-racking but in the best way," acknowledging the show's unique status as "THE New Year's show" that serves as the soundtrack to countless celebrations across the country.
Jools Holland: The Unstoppable Ringmaster
For three non-stop hours, Jools Holland is a whirlwind of energy. He acts as pianist, bandleader, interviewer, and host, navigating a giant circle of performers and celebrity guests. His only prompts come from discreet whiteboards held by production staff, detailing names and directions. He likens the experience to diving into a swimming pool: "You just throw yourself in and it's all right, really, once the water's OK and you start swimming, you keep the momentum going."
The aim is to film in one seamless take to preserve the raw, live energy. "There's a few little mistakes in there, but who cares? It is what it is," Jools admits, championing the show's genuine, unpolished feel. A standout moment comes from Olivia Dean, who joins Jools for a rendition of Natalie Cole's "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)." Holland praises her remarkable ascent, noting she has gone from playing clubs to selling out global stadiums since her last Hootenanny appearance.
Behind the scenes, Jools' band undertakes a mammoth task, learning and arranging a vast setlist for the diverse array of guests with just a day's rehearsal. "The band has never sounded better," Jools proudly states.
Jools Holland's Annual Hootenanny airs on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer on New Year's Eve at 11.30pm, ready to bring its uniquely pre-recorded, yet utterly authentic, celebration into millions of homes.
