James Corden, as promised, went back on the air last night and hosted "Homefest: Late Late Show Special". The special was broadcasted from the makeshift set of his garage. John Legend, Billie Eilish, BTS, Dua Lipa were several of the big stars who provided joy and music amid "one of the strangest and scariest moments in all our lives".  

James Corden in makeshift set from his garage
(Photo : Twitter/@JKCorden)
James Corden in makeshift set from his garage

Corden reminded the audience that all are connected despite the unexpected physical distance caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The late-night show host said that Homefest aims to bring "people together to keep them apart". He believes the virus united all, and everyone is equal and human. The hour-long special was used as a platform to raise funds for the benefit of the CDC Foundation and Feed the Children to support those suffering from COVID-19.

John Legend kicked off the Homefest party from his Los Angeles home. He was with wife, Chrissy Tiegen. Legend played the keyboard while singing his single "Actions", which was released on March 20. The couple told Corden about Tiegen's home cooking, and how they are dealing - not without difficulty - with the kids while on quarantine.

Will Ferrell followed and demonstrated the proper handwashing technique to keep the virus away. The comedy actor hit several high-note songs such as Chandelier by Sia while washing his hands. He suggested other tunes to make sure washing is done for at least 20 seconds.

From their LA home, Billie Eilish and brother Finneas soon joined the special. Finneas hit the piano while singing "Everything I Wanted" soulfully with Eilish, who was seen putting her puppies to sleep. Corden was left in tears after the siblings' set.

To spice up the night, David Blaine worked on a magic card trick that spooked the host.

Streaming from London, Dua Lipa and her crew (from their respective homes) performed the hit song "Don't Start Now".

Next in line was Andrea Bocelli, whom Corden praised as one of the greatest Italian singers of all time. Italy is one of the most-hit countries by the virus with the highest rate of fatalities. The opera singer sent a message of hope to fellow Italians and encouraged them to be positive. Bocelli then performed a moving rendition of the famous "Con Te Partiro" on his piano.

From the opposite side of the world, Kpop's biggest boyband, BTS sent greetings and messages of good wishes. RM (Namjoon) shared that though they seem to be isolated, "we're still connected through our shared experiences, our courage, and our laughter." BTS sang and danced the hit song "Boy with Luv" from their practice room.

At the end of the special, Corden shared his deep insights on how the situation impacted his life. He admitted that he experienced "spikes of anxiety and sadness" as he thought of his family and friends in England. He said, "it's okay right now to feel a bit sad". The host acknowledged that everyone would get through this trying time.

The show ended on an uplifting note with Ben Platt and the cast of "Dear Evan Hansen" theatre production. They performed an emotional rendition of "You Will Be Found".

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