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A primetime TV special called Celebrating America<\/em> — the "capstone" of this precedented Inauguration Day, organizers said — began airing at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday in honor of newly sworn-in President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.<\/p>\n The 90-minute special, hosted by Tom Hanks, was an adjustment amid the COVID-19 pandemic as officials encouraged the public to watch inaugural events at home and switched much of the programming to remote formats.<\/p>\n Celebrating America <\/em>would "showcase the American people's resilience, heroism, and unified commitment to coming together," organizers have said of the primetime event, meant to replace the glitz and glamor of the usual Washington, D.C., gatherings. <\/p>\n The special, which is airing on the major networks and online, kicked off with a performance by Bruce Springsteen, followed later by Jon Bon Jovi and the Foo Fighters.<\/p>\n There were segments spotlighting regular people who had distinguished themselves through service as well. <\/p>\n The special included a mix of remote and pre-recorded appearances.<\/p>\n Partway through, Hanks introduced Biden from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial for a brief speech following his earlier inaugural address at the U.S. Capitol.<\/p>\n "We've learned again that democracy is precious," Biden said. "Because of you democracy has prevailed. That's Jill and I, Kamala and Doug, wanted to make sure our inauguration is not about us but about you, the American people."<\/p>\n Early on in the show, audiences watched as Brayden Harrington – a young boy who spoke about how Biden made him feel confident despite his stuttering problem during the Democratic National Convention — read lines from John F. Kennedy's inaugural address.<\/p>\n Eva Longoria and Kerry Washington also appeared and organizers had said they "will introduce segments throughout the night ranging from stories of young people making a difference in their communities to musical performances."<\/p>\n Ant Clemons and Justin Timberlake performed their song "Better Days" and Demi Lovato, Katy Perry and others are set to sing.<\/p>\n Timberlake said on the Today <\/em>show that he was "incredibly excited" by the opportunity, calling it an "honor."<\/p>\n