James and George Present: “Carpool Karaoke” – A Theatrical Car-Singing Spectacle
In 2011, James Corden, best known for his portrayal in “Gavin & Stacey,” revived his character Smithy for a Comic Relief sketch that would become a significant moment in television history. The sketch begins with Smithy receiving a call from Lenny Henry, whom he only recognizes after being reminded that he’s the “bloke from the Premier Inn commercials.” Lenny urges Smithy to help out at 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, the audience is surprised when George Michael joins him as a passenger. The interaction between the two is immediately captivating, with Smithy insisting that George shouldn’t come along to the BBC. George, displaying his quick wit, responds by calling Smithy and his friend Gavin “closet bummers,” leading to a funny exchange that underscores the strong chemistry between the performers.
The initial tension in the car begins to fade when Smithy tries to lighten the atmosphere by playing Wham!’s “I’m Your Man” on the car stereo. This sparks an impromptu sing-along, with both Smithy and George passionately singing the lyrics together. This spontaneous duet not only entertains but also highlights George Michael’s willingness to engage in self-parody for a charitable cause.
At the time, neither of them realized that this sketch would lay the groundwork for what would evolve into the global hit “Carpool Karaoke.” James Corden later shared that his experience with George Michael was crucial in developing the popular segment on “The Late Late Show.” He mentioned that when he was trying to book 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 join in.
The original sketch has since become a cherished piece of television history, accumulating millions of views on platforms like YouTube. It stands as a tribute to George Michael’s humor and his dedication to charitable endeavors. His participation not only entertained viewers but also played a vital 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.” He noted that George Michael’s enthusiasm in the Comic Relief sketch was a key factor in the segment’s creation and success. Corden has 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 notable personalities, including then UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, JLS, Paul McCartney, and Justin Bieber, enhancing its star-studded appeal. These cameo appearances contributed to the sketch’s popularity and its lasting reputation 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 ignited a worldwide phenomenon. The collaboration between James Corden and George Michael remains a prime example of how comedy and music can come together to create something truly memorable.
You can watch the original sketch here:
