James and George Present: “Carpool Karaoke” – A Theatrical Car-Singing Spectacle

In 2011, James Corden, best known for his role in “Gavin & Stacey,” revived his beloved character Smithy for a Comic Relief sketch that would become a landmark moment in television history. The sketch begins with Smithy receiving a call from Lenny Henry, whom he only recognizes after being reminded that Lenny is the “bloke from the Premier Inn adverts.” Lenny urges Smithy to help out at the BBC Studios for the charity event, and after some hesitation, Smithy agrees, setting the scene for a humorous and unexpected adventure.

As Smithy gets ready to leave, viewers are surprised by the appearance of George Michael as his passenger. The interaction between the two is instantly engaging, with Smithy firmly stating that George cannot join him on the trip to the BBC. George, demonstrating his quick wit, responds by labeling Smithy and his friend Gavin as “closet bummers,” leading to a funny exchange that highlights the strong chemistry between the performers.

The tension in the car starts to ease when Smithy, aiming to lighten the atmosphere, plays Wham!’s “I’m Your Man” on the car stereo. This sparks an impromptu sing-along, with both Smithy and George enthusiastically singing the lyrics together. This spontaneous duet not only entertains but also showcases George Michael’s ability to embrace self-parody for a charitable cause.

At the time, neither of them knew that this sketch would lay the groundwork for the global phenomenon known as “Carpool Karaoke.” James Corden later revealed that his experience with George Michael was crucial in developing the popular segment on “The Late Late Show.” He mentioned that when booking guests for the new segment, he would show them the clip of his car sing-along with George Michael, which helped persuade artists like Mariah Carey to participate.

Since then, the original sketch has become a cherished piece of television history, garnering millions of views on platforms like YouTube. It stands as a tribute to George Michael’s sense of humor and his dedication to charitable causes. His participation not only delighted audiences but also played a significant role in the creation of a segment that has brought joy to millions around the world.

Reflecting on George Michael’s legacy, James Corden has frequently spoken about the singer’s impact on his career and the inception of “Carpool Karaoke.” Corden noted that George Michael’s enthusiasm for participating in the Comic Relief sketch was a key factor in the segment’s creation and success. He expressed profound gratitude for Michael’s contribution, acknowledging that many elements of the show owe a debt to the late artist.

The sketch also featured appearances by other prominent figures, including then UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, the boy band JLS, Sir Paul McCartney, and Justin Bieber, enhancing its star-studded appeal. These cameo appearances contributed to the sketch’s popularity and its lasting status as a highlight of Comic Relief programming.

For those interested in witnessing this iconic moment in television history, the original sketch is available online, allowing audiences to enjoy the humor and charm that sparked a worldwide sensation. The collaboration between James Corden and George Michael remains a shining example of how comedy and music can come together to create something truly memorable.