Wham!: New Documentary Recounts Historic 1985 China Tour

A new documentary titled "Wham! 10 Days In China" is set to illuminate the iconic British pop duo's groundbreaking 1985 tour of China, celebrating their cultural legacy and impact on the 1980s music scene. The film focuses on this unique period when George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley became the first Western pop group to perform in China following the Cultural Revolution, forging a historic cultural exchange.

The documentary aims to capture not only the musical success of Wham! but also the deeper significance of their tour, which left an indelible mark on contemporary pop culture. Andrew Ridgeley shared with the BBC, "This film finally reveals the untold story of WHAM!'s pioneering venture and lays bare, in all their human contradictions, the individual perspectives behind what was a bold and high-stakes gamble." He emphasized the film's exploration of the personal viewpoints behind this risky endeavor.

Jonathan Rothery, Head of BBC Pop Music TV, expressed excitement about the new project following the success of "WHAM! Last Christmas Unwrapped." He stated, "I'm thrilled that we can tell another landmark story of WHAM!'s legacy. George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley's monumental visit to China forty years ago made global headlines, and now our viewers will be able to watch their captivating performances and see the behind-the-scenes of their momentous visit for the first time on British television."

The 10-day tour, encompassing performances in Beijing and Guangzhou, is central to the new production. "Wham! 10 Days In China," a joint production by Sony Music Vision and Sony Music Entertainment UK, delves into the legacy of this historic visit and its influence on the music geography of the era. The film is described as a "unique moment that honors their enduring global influence," underscoring the importance of the two concerts that introduced live pop music to the Chinese audience under the strict conditions of the time.