Tom Hanks to Host Inauguration Event with Demi Lovato, Justin Timberlake Performing
Next week, actor Tom Hanks will host "Celebrating America," an evening TV special to punctuate Inauguration Day 2021, the official start to President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris' term in the White House. Alongside Hanks, musical guests Demi Lovato, Justin Timberlake, Bon Jovi, and Ant Clemons will perform. In an Instagram post, Timberlake said that he and Clemons will be singing their new song "Better Days" for the program.
“This inauguration presents a unique opportunity to spotlight the resilience and spirit of an America United,” said Tony Allen, CEO of the Presidential Inaugural Committee, in a statement referencing the event's newly-announced theme.
Unlike previous inaugurations, Biden's foray into the presidency will look slightly different. In light of the recent attack on the Capitol, while Biden is still expected to be sworn on the Hill, the ceremony will not be followed by a motorcade parade. In addition, the traditional inaugural balls will not take place due to coronavirus regulations. Instead, "Celebrating America" will allow viewers at home to take part in the festivities surrounding the newly-sworn in presidential, while also honoring frontline workers, teachers, and other Americans who have given back over the past year.
The live broadcast of “Celebrating America” will appear on ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC, and MSNBC at 8:30-10:00 p.m. EST on January 20, 2021. The special will also be available to stream live on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch, Amazon Prime Video, Microsoft Bing, NewsNOW from Fox, and AT&T DirectTV and U-verse.
