Céline Dion recently showered Kelly Clarkson with praise for her performance of the iconic “My Heart Will Go On” during the “Kellyoke” segment of The Kelly Clarkson Show. Clarkson covered the 1997 hit, which became legendary thanks to its role in the movie Titanic. Dion took to social media to share her heartfelt response: “You were absolutely incredible. Fantastic,” she began. “I loved it so much. I hope we can see each other in person very soon. And I hope I’m not going to start crying. I love you so much.”
Dion’s emotional post also touched on a moment from earlier this summer when she noticed Clarkson’s reaction to her performance at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympics. The event marked Dion’s highly anticipated return to the stage after revealing her struggle with stiff-person syndrome in 2022. Clarkson, who was part of NBC’s coverage team, was deeply moved as she watched Dion sing Edith Piaf’s “Hymne A L’Amour.” “I actually can’t talk,” Clarkson said after witnessing the performance, clearly in awe.
Once she regained her composure, Clarkson elaborated: “That was really beautiful. People don’t realize what she’s been going through physically. It’s just incredible what she’s overcome to have that moment.”
Céline, who has been vocal about her battle with the rare neurological condition, was visibly touched by Clarkson’s words. The disorder, which causes painful muscle stiffness and spasms, makes singing feel like “somebody’s strangling you,” she explained in a recent interview.
Dion admitted that watching Clarkson’s rendition of “My Heart Will Go On” moved her to tears all over again. “It was so sweet to hear you. Your voice was breaking, and it touched me so tremendously,” she said, struggling to keep her own emotions in check. “You were crying, and you made me start crying. What’s up with all this freakin’ crying?”
In response, Clarkson took to social media to express her appreciation. She recalled how she once sang one of Dion’s songs during her American Idol days while battling laryngitis, and she was thrilled to have a chance to do it again—this time healthy and paying tribute to a legend she greatly admires. “Where do you want me to be?” she joked, showing her eagerness to connect with Céline in person.
It’s clear that these two powerhouse singers share a deep mutual respect and admiration, making this heartfelt exchange all the more special.