In a last-minute disappointment for attendees, actress and singer Hannah Waddingham was compelled to withdraw from her scheduled performance at the Princess of Wales's annual Christmas carol service. The event, held at Westminster Abbey, saw a swift replacement step in.
A Compromised Voice Leads to Withdrawal
The Ted Lasso star, 51, was set to sing the classic carol 'In The Bleak Midwinter' for an audience of 1,600 guests, which included members of the Royal Family. However, just before the service began on the evening of December 5, 2025, it was revealed that Waddingham would not take to the stage.
The performer's singing voice was reportedly not meeting her own high standards. According to reports, her vocal capacity had been 'compromised from an exhausting filming schedule', forcing the difficult decision. Despite not performing, Waddingham still attended the festive gathering.
Last-Minute Replacement and Star-Studded Lineup
Singer Zak Abel was called upon as an emergency stand-in for the coveted slot. Abel performed for the royal audience and other guests, though he sang 'Silent Night' instead of Waddingham's originally planned hymn.
The service, named 'Together at Christmas' and now in its fifth year, featured a host of other famous faces. Actors Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor delivered readings, while musical performances came from artists including Griff, Fisherman’s Friends, Katie Melua, and Dan Smith of Bastille.
Dame Mary Berry, though not performing, contributed by creating a special Christmas wreath displayed at the historic abbey. The event is backed by the Royal Foundation and aims to honour volunteers and community champions.
Waddingham's Established Royal Connections
This is not the first time Hannah Waddingham has collaborated with the Royal Family. She previously hosted Prince William's Earthshot Prize ceremony and worked alongside him on a documentary project last year.
She has publicly praised the Prince of Wales, describing him as 'a glorious gentleman' and stating she told him he was 'a cut above the rest'. In a letter to attendees, Princess Kate expressed gratitude for those who have made an 'extraordinary difference to the lives of others'.
