The holiday season has just gotten a whole lot brighter as WHAM! commemorates four decades of their timeless classic, “Last Christmas”. The beloved hit, a staple in festive playlists around the world, has reached an all-time high on the Billboard Hot 100, climbing to number three—its highest-ever peak. To mark this monumental achievement, a special Last Christmas 40th Anniversary EP has been released, offering fans a collection of nostalgia and surprises. And that’s not all: a brand-new Netflix and Roku documentary, WHAM!: Last Christmas Unwrapped, will soon transport fans behind the scenes of this iconic track’s enduring legacy.

Originally released in December 1984, “Last Christmas” became an instant phenomenon, topping charts in 16 countries and cementing its place in the soundtrack of the holiday season. Over the years, the song has achieved incredible milestones, from multi-platinum certifications to amassing over 5 billion combined streams. Its success continues to snowball, with this week’s RIAA certification elevating it to 7x Platinum in the United States. Whether you’ve been singing along since its debut or only recently discovered its magic, this year’s anniversary celebration is a can’t-miss event for music lovers everywhere.

Ready to unwrap the story of WHAM!’s holiday masterpiece? Let’s explore the highlights of this festive celebration.

The 40th Anniversary EP: A Musical Time Capsule

The Last Christmas 40th Anniversary EP, released worldwide today, is a treasure trove for fans of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley’s iconic duo. Available on limited-edition vinyl, CD, and digital formats, the EP brings together the original 7-inch and 12-inch versions of the song, a previously unreleased live performance by George Michael from London’s Wembley Arena in 2006, and a pristine instrumental track.

For vinyl enthusiasts, the collection is available in three stunning designs: a Snowflake white vinyl, a 12-inch picture disc, and a zoetrope picture disc. These collectible editions aren’t just music—they’re works of art, perfect for any WHAM! fan’s holiday display. Stream or purchase your copy of the EP here.

What’s Inside the EP?

• Side A:
  1. Last Christmas
  2. Last Christmas (Pudding Mix)
• Side B:
  1. Last Christmas (Live at Wembley Arena, December 2006)
  2. Last Christmas (Instrumental)

The digital and CD formats also include these tracks, ensuring every fan can experience this special release in their preferred format.

A Chart-Topping Comeback

While “Last Christmas” has always been a fan favorite, its rise to number three on the Billboard Hot 100 this week marks a historic moment. Despite being released nearly 40 years ago, the song continues to capture hearts and dominate airwaves. This resurgence is a testament to the song’s universal themes of love, heartbreak, and holiday nostalgia—emotions that resonate across generations.

Adding to its momentum, contemporary artists have given the track a fresh spin. Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan performed a dazzling duet of the song during Netflix’s A Nonsense Christmas, while K-pop sensation ROSÉ delivered a heartfelt rendition on BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge. Even the Backstreet Boys joined the celebration, performing “Last Christmas” during NBC’s Christmas at Rockefeller Center, where Andrew Ridgeley made a special guest appearance. Watch their performances here.

WHAM!: Last Christmas Unwrapped

Set to premiere December 15 on Netflix and Roku in the United States (and December 14 on BBC 2 in the UK), WHAM!: Last Christmas Unwrapped takes fans on an enchanting journey through the history of this holiday classic. Featuring interviews with Andrew Ridgeley, Pepsi DeMacque-Crockett, Shirlie Kemp, and other key players, the documentary explores the song’s creation, George Michael’s brilliance, and the untold stories behind the beloved music video.

What to Expect from the Documentary

• A Trip Down Memory Lane: Revisit Saas-Fee, Switzerland, where the original video was filmed.
• Exclusive Insights: Hear from George Michael through archive footage and radio interviews.
• Star-Studded Appearances: Mary J. Blige, Sam Smith, Bob Geldof, and Neil Tennant share their thoughts on the song’s themes.
• Fan Moments: Celebrate the impact of “Last Christmas” with stories from its most dedicated followers.

With its combination of nostalgia and new revelations, this documentary promises to be a holiday highlight. 

The Enduring Legacy of “Last Christmas”

Few songs have achieved the iconic status of “Last Christmas”. Since its debut, the track has transcended cultural and generational boundaries, becoming an inseparable part of holiday traditions worldwide. From its unforgettable melody to its heartfelt lyrics, the song captures the bittersweet essence of the season. Its record-breaking sales and streaming figures prove that, 40 years later, its charm shows no signs of fading.

This year’s celebrations remind us of the immense talent and creativity of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley. Whether through the EP, documentary, or modern covers, “Last Christmas” continues to bring joy to millions. So grab your limited-edition vinyl, cozy up with the documentary, and let WHAM! be the soundtrack to your holiday season.

Share Your Memories of “Last Christmas”

How has “Last Christmas” been a part of your holiday traditions? Share your stories, thoughts, and favorite moments in the comments below. Whether it’s a cherished memory or a new discovery, we’d love to hear how this song has made your holidays brighter.