Some people ring in the new year with fireworks. SBS said no, actually, let’s do legendary vocals and Dan Levy gently holding space between two queer music icons.
‘An Evening with Elton John and Brandi Carlile’ is airing New Year’s Eve at 8:50 pm on SBS and SBS On Demand, and it is shaping up to be the kind of joyous, tender, slightly unhinged music special that feels tailor-made for queer hearts and anyone who cries when harmony hits just right.
Filmed earlier this year at the London Palladium, the concert special brings together Elton John and Brandi Carlile for live performances, deep chats, shared history and a very real celebration of their collaborative album ‘Who Believes In Angels?’. Hosting duties are handled by a close friend and Emmy winner, Dan Levy, which honestly tells you everything you need to know about the vibe.
This is not a glossy press-tour performance. These are friends on stage. Stories between songs. A little reverence, a little chaos, and a lot of love.
What to Expect on the Night
Across the evening, Elton and Brandi perform tracks from ‘Who Believes In Angels?’, alongside beloved classics from their own catalogues. There are solo moments, duets, and reimagined versions of songs that already live rent-free in our emotional memory.
Between performances, the pair sit down on stage with Dan Levy for an intimate conversation about their 20-year friendship, their careers, creative process, and what it means to collaborate later in life with trust and respect. There is also exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from the making of the album, plus tributes from people closest to them.
It is reflective without being precious. Celebratory without being hollow. And deeply, unmistakably queer in the way chosen family shows up.
Elton John, Brandi Carlile – Who Believes In Angels? (Live At The London Palladium)
When and Where to Watch
An Evening with Elton John and Brandi Carlile
New Year’s Eve
8:50 pm AEDT
SBS and SBS On Demand
Perfect viewing for anyone avoiding loud parties, overstimulation, or straight men yelling countdowns at televisions.
Accessibility Snapshot
Based on SBS broadcast and On Demand features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| On-Demand viewing | Available on SBS and SBS On Demand Watch live or later at your own pace On Demand allows pausing, volume control and breaks |
| Sensory load | Bright stage lighting, live band audio |
Friendly reminder that watching at home, in pyjamas, with snacks and zero social obligation is a valid and celebrated way to spend New Year’s Eve.
About the Album
‘Who Believes In Angels?’
Available now across streaming services and physical formats, including CD and an exclusive purple marble LP.
Order and stream here:
https://uma.lnk.to/EltonJohnBrandiCarlileWBIA
TLDR;
• Elton John and Brandi Carlile team up for an intimate concert special
• Hosted by Dan Levy, filmed at the London Palladium
• Airing New Year’s Eve at 8:50 pm on SBS and SBS On Demand
• Equal parts music, friendship, storytelling and queer joy
If you want to start 2026 feeling held, understood, and gently emotionally rearranged, this is the move.
Stay unruly.
