Wham!'s Last Christmas turns 40 as holiday favorite and divisive classic

Wham!'s "Last Christmas" turns 40 this year and remains a holiday staple. The song, known for its themes of heartbreak, is played widely during the season, with numerous covers in various languages and styles. Originally titled "Last Easter," the song was released on November 30, 1984. It quickly resonated with listeners, capturing the pain of lost love during the holidays. Its catchy melody has made it one of the most played Christmas songs. Despite its popularity, some people try to avoid it through the "Whamageddon" challenge, which began in 2016. The song reached No. 1 in the UK and Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic, further solidifying its presence in holiday music.