Apple's "Carpool Karaoke: The Series" now available for streaming on Apple Music
As promised, Apple on Tuesday released the first episode of “Carpool Karaoke: The Series” to Apple Music subscribers, the firm’s second attempt at original episodic programming.
In the 20-minute premiere episode, comedian and show creator James Corden joins Will Smith on a tour through Los Angeles, where they sing along to their favorite songs, chat and take on a few surprises.
Though most “Carpool Karaoke” episodes will not feature a host, the Smith installment feels very much like an extended version of the segment made popular by The Late Late Show with James Corden. Between witty repartee, and of course in-car karaoke, Corden falls back into his usual role, peppering Smith with questions about songs like “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It” and the theme to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
Future episodes are expected to take on a more free flowing format, as pairings include movie stars, entertainers, athletes and musicians. There are, however, at least two seasoned talk show hosts in the mix with Chelsea Handler and Trevor Noah, who filmed segments with Blake Shelton and Shakira, respectively. Still, the Apple Music version of “Karaoke” is expected to deviate from the Late Late Show’s Q&A style.
Apple on Tuesday also posted new TV ads for two upcoming episodes, one featuring Alicia Keys and John Legend with guests Taraji P. Henderson and Corden, and another starring Billy Eichner and Metallica.
“Karaoke” is slated to feature a laundry list of celebrities including Metallica, Shaquille O’Neal, John Legend, John Cena, Ariana Grande, Game of Thrones co-stars Maisie Williams and Sophie Turner, and more.
“Carpool Karaoke: The Series” is available for streaming on Apple Music.