Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the iconic Christmas special, celebrates its 60th anniversary with a special airing on NBC, its original network home. The beloved stop-motion animation will feature an extended version, with additional showings on various platforms including Freeform and streaming services like Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime.
This December marks a significant milestone for a holiday classic, 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.' The longest-running Christmas special in television history returns to NBC to celebrate its 60th anniversary. Originally aired in 1964, the special will be broadcast in an extended format, reintroducing the timeless story of Rudolph and his shiny red nose to a new generation.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer will air on NBC on December 6, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET, commemorating its original premiere date. For those who miss the initial broadcast, an encore presentation is scheduled for December 12. Additionally, the special will be shown on Freeform as part of their '25 Days of Christmas' lineup, and is available for streaming on platforms like Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime, where it can be purchased for $7.99.
Created by Robert L. May in 1939 as a promotional story for Montgomery Ward, Rudolph became a phenomenon with the release of the song by Johnny Marks and the subsequent 1964 NBC special. This story of a red-nosed reindeer who saves Christmas continues to resonate, symbolizing the celebration of differences and the joy of the holiday season.
Beyond television, Rudolph's influence extends to various cultural expressions, including ice sculptures and community events. The character's appeal is evident in its continued relevance, touching hearts with its message of bravery and acceptance. This year, events like the display at the Gaylord Texan Resort highlight the enduring love for Rudolph and his story.
As 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' returns to NBC for its 60th anniversary, it not only celebrates a milestone but also reaffirms its place as a beloved holiday tradition. This special airing provides an opportunity for families to come together and share in the joy and magic that Rudolph brings to the holiday season.
"We had no idea that we would be seeing this for 60 years afterward." - Corinne Conley