New York – Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin Eve had a total new look without the usual million people packing Times Square. Only a select number were allowed past the barricades; frontline workers, first responders, essential workers and their families. The country has endured an unprecedented year with the coronavirus pandemic making the safety guidelines being enforced with tight security by the NYPD.
Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen hosted CNN. Ryan Seacrest was joined by actress Lucy Hale and actor Billy Porter hosting ABC. The area for stages was tighten up to extend between 45th Street and 47th Street. The iconic Ball Drop with entertainers was created with live performances and included virtual technology that was brought together by One Times Square reaching from New York City, California, New Orleans and other destinations. Among the top-rated performers featured; USO Show Troupe, Gloria Gaynor, Andra Day, Jennifer Lopez, Billy Porter, Cyndi Lauper, Jimmie Allen, Anitta, Pitbull and more.
Ryan Seacrest interviewed President-elect Joseph R. Biden Jr. and his wife, Dr. Jill Biden. Before the ball started dropping Andra Day performed John Lennon’s “Imagine” on the Planet Fitness Center Stage in Times Square. Mayor Bill de Blasio pushed the Waterford Crystal button that started the countdown of the New Year’s Eve Ball. The New Year’s confetti that also included thousands of wishes from revelers hoping for love and peace in 2021 was released from the rooftops.
Nancy Ann Peterson, photo-journalist