Zooey Deschanel sparked a wave of festive chatter this week after joking that she might be ready to challenge Mariah Carey for the unofficial title of “Queen of Christmas.”
The actress shared the playful comment during a conversation with E! News while promoting her latest holiday projects and reflecting on her long-standing love for seasonal stories and music.
Deschanel, widely adored for her role as Jovie in the classic Christmas film Elf, has returned to holiday screens this year with her new film Merv. Beyond acting, she has also built a strong musical presence during the festive season through her band She & Him, which released two Christmas albums in 2011 and 2016—both of which continue to enjoy annual popularity.
With her growing catalogue of holiday work, Deschanel humorously noted that she now has “two Christmas movies and two Christmas records,” before jokingly wondering if Mariah Carey had the same number. Despite the lighthearted tease, the 45-year-old star stressed that she holds nothing but admiration for Carey.
Mariah Carey has long been known as the “Queen of Christmas,” thanks to her enduring holiday anthem All I Want for Christmas Is You, which has dominated global playlists every December since its release in 1994. The singer has repeatedly embraced the nickname and the festive legacy that comes with it.
Carey has previously spoken about her deep love for the holiday season, especially the joy she finds in thoughtful gift-giving. She has said she values the care and time behind each present she receives. Every year, Carey famously ushers in the holiday spirit with her viral “It Is Time” video — a playful annual announcement that the Christmas season has officially begun.
She once revealed that she plans these videos a year in advance because Christmas holds a special place in her life, bringing her happiness and inspiration since childhood.
As the holiday season unfolds, Deschanel’s joke has only added a cheerful spark to the festive countdown, reminding fans why both she and Carey continue to be beloved seasonal staples.