NBC unwraps festive holiday programming for 2011

MUMBAI: US broadcaster NBC has unveiled a lineup of shows that include the new holiday variety special ?A Michael Buble Christmas? on 6 December, ?The Sing-Off Holiday Special? on 5 December and ?William and Kate: Inside the Royal Marriage? on 13 December.

In addition, NBC will bring back the traditional tree-lighting special ?Christmas in Rockefeller Center 2011? on 30 November while also featuring ?The Biggest Loser: Where Are They Now?? .

Likewise, the network will once again honor the United States armed forces as World Wrestling Entertainment in conjunction with NBC, will air the fourth annual holiday special ?WWE Tribute to the Troops" on 17 December.

Saturday Night Live Presents: A Very Gilly Christmas? airs on 20 December celebrating the season with a two-hour special that features ?Saturday Night Live? holiday sketches including material with Alec Baldwin and the infamous troublemaker Gilly played by Kristen Wiig.

?The Sing-Off Holiday Special? will be filled with holiday and
inspirational songs performed by the winning groups from all three seasons, a compilation of lead singers from season three, a collegiate ensemble and special guests.

??William and Kate: Inside the Royal Marriage? will offer a new look into the royal couple?s first months of marital life. ?The 85th Anniversary of the Macy?s Thanksgiving Day Parade? which airs on 24 November is a look back at 85 years of one of America?s greatest holiday traditions. The special features the floats, balloons and performances that make the show one of the most watched spectacles every year.

NBC will also air films, including the premiere of ?Dr. Seuss? Horton Hears A Who!? as well as ?National Treasure: Book of Secrets? on 25 November and ?Bee Movie? on 26 November.

The traditional holiday classic, ?It?s a Wonderful Life?, will air twice again this season on 3 December and in its annual Christmas Eve slot on 24 December.