This modern update of Dickens' holiday fable focuses on superdiva Ebony Scrooge (Vanessa Williams), an egotistical singer who's lost touch with Christmas's true meaning. The night before a gig in New York City, however, she's visited by the ghosts of Christmases past, present and future. Marli Jacob: Rozanda "Chilli" Thomas. Ghost of Christmas Past: Kathy Griffin. Ghost of Christmas Present: John Taylor.