Machine Gun Kelly’s performance of “Last Christmas” on NBC’s “A Motown Christmas” sparked backlash, with many criticizing his rendition and questioning why he was chosen to perform.

MGK took the stage with braided hair, multiple ear piercings, and a silver necklace adorning his neck. He wore wide-leg black pants featuring hanging chains and white flame-like embroidery, paired with a black shirt left open to reveal his tattooed chest. As he performed on “A Motown Christmas,” MGK played the guitar and danced energetically, singing into the microphone.

Fans had a lot to say about MGK’s rock rendition of “Last Christmas.” The song was first released on December 3, 1984. It was written and performed by George Michael as part of the iconic British duo Wham! Fans’ reactions to MGK’s version ranged from harsh critiques to rare praise, with many unable to hold back their opinions.

One fan didn’t mince words, writing, “Sorry but it’s a pop song not a country rock song.” Another was baffled by the performance’s vibe, remarking, “Saw that ‘Motown Christmas’ was playing on NBC and it was MGK performing a pop punk cover of Last Christmas.”

Criticism of MGK’s interpretation of the iconic song poured in, with one conflicted viewer noting, “I personally don’t pick too much at Last Christmas covers but how in the world did MGK make it so…soulless, and sanitized (which is a strange word in this case, but just feels right to use)? I’m screaming! Smokey is still absolutely amazing btw.”

Some were even questioning his presence at the event, “Nothing against MGK but really?! Why would he need to perform at a Motown Christmas? Y’all had no other Motown legends to perform Christmas songs or any other black singers?”

Another user pointed out the mismatched aesthetics, “Now why is MGK on MOTOWN Christmas playing an acoustic guitar rock version of Last Christmas and wearing cornrows….what is going on.”

The disapproval didn’t stop there, with one fan begging, “Omg make it stop,” and another declaring “It was terrible.” One viewer simply said, “Nope, ruined it,” while another was more blunt, exclaiming, “How disgraceful!”

Some fans took issue with his singing style, saying, “Why he’s [sic] singing this song so fast,” and one frustrated fan even declared, “George Michael did not die for this.” Another observant fan added, to the criticism, “Ever vid I see him disgracing another song that isn’t his [sic].”

While the criticism was relentless, there were glimmers of appreciation amidst the chaos. A fan praised Machine Gun Kelly’s effort: “It’s perfect and the dancing .” Another chimed in with positivity: “Officially the best cover of Last Christmas! “ And finally, someone simply stated, “Loved it .”

The hits played at “A Motown Christmas” have been a staple in American homes for over eighty years. Jen Neal, Executive Vice President of Live Events & Specials at NBCUniversal Entertainment emphasized NBC’s pride in celebrating Motown’s legendary legacy with a festive holiday special.

Typically, a Motown celebration features classic hits such as “Tears of a Clown,” “Superstition,” “My Girl,” “Dancing in the Streets,” “Stop (In the Name of Love),” “ABC,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” and “Reach Out (I’ll Be There).”

This year’s “A Motown Christmas” was co-hosted by Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey. It showcased performances from a stellar lineup of artists, including Ashanti, Andra Day, BeBe Winans, Jamie Foxx, JoJo, October London, MGK, Pentatonix, Jordin Sparks, and the cast of the Broadway show “MJ The Musical.”