SINGER Rick Astley will host the BBC’s New Year’s Eve show this year.

The 57-year-old musician, best known for his 1987 chart-topper Never Gonna Give You Up, will host the music event on BBC One next month.

Astley, who grew up in Newton-le-Willows, said the news, announced on Saturday, was an “honour”, before adding: “It’s always been part of my New Year’s ritual to watch the show and take in the amazing fireworks, so to be part of it this year is fantastic. Here’s to a great night.”

With the working title, Rick Astley Rocks New Year’s Eve, the event will be held at the Roundhouse in Camden, London.

Jonathan Rothery, head of BBC pop music TV, said: “Our annual New Year’s Eve performances on BBC One are about bringing some of the biggest names in music to people’s homes, wherever they are in the UK.

“The last few years have seen performances from Sam Ryder in 2022, Olly Alexander, Kylie, Pet Shop Boys in 2021 and Alicia Keys in 2020 and I’m so pleased to be able to announce that Rick Astley – who has had a fantastic 2023 so far – will be soundtracking the celebrations this year.

“It’s a brilliant way to round off another fantastic year of live performances on the BBC.”

The guests joining Astley on stage will be announced in due course.

This follows the singer performing on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury this year, where he covered Harry Styles’ hit As It Was, and AC/DC’s Highway To Hell.

Alison Howe, executive producer of entertainment and music at BBC Studios, said: “After working with Rick and his team at Glastonbury, we are thrilled to be joining forces again.

“Who better to see us into the new year from another iconic venue? The atmosphere is sure to be electric.”

Tickets go on sale at 9am on Tuesday.