We all know what Rudolph, Frosty, It’s A Wonderful Life and Elf is, but what about Snowglobe, Cranberry Christmas or Snow 2? Well, we’re here to help!
Here is a listing of program descriptions for all the Holiday Programs broadcasting in 2009. Click HERE for the list of shows by premiere date.
A CAROL CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
This holiday special puts a twist on the classic Dickens’ tale, with Tori Spelling cast as a conceited modern-day talk show host who is haunted by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. The film also stars William Shatner, Dinah Manoff and Gary Coleman. (Live Action)
A CHARLIE BROWN THANKSGIVING – ABC
Starring an unlikely round-headed hero and a unique cast of young characters wiser and wittier than their years, Charles Schulz’s PEANUTS is not just the best-known, most-loved comic strip ever created, but a true global phenomenon. The PEANUTS characters are featured in 2200 newspapers, in classic television specials and on re-mastered DVDs, on stage, in hundreds of books and across the Internet. They have inspired every kind of consumer product from T-shirts to toothbrushes. And while translated into 25 languages, PEANUTS has introduced a vocabulary all its own: “Good grief!,” “security blanket,” “Happiness is…,” “You blockhead!” As PEANUTS approaches its 60th anniversary in 2010, “Good ol’ Charlie Brown” and his inseparable gang remain as fresh and vital as ever.
A CHRISTMAS STORY – TNT
Who would have thought that the phrase “You’ll put your eye out” would become synonymous with Christmas? But anyone who has seen A Christmas Story would be hard-pressed not to repeat that much-quoted line whenever the holiday classic is mentioned.
Based on writer/radio personality Jean Shepherd’s collection of short stories entitled In God We Trust (All Others Pay Cash), A Christmas Story recalls a young boy’s longing for a prized Christmas gift: a Daisy Red Ryder 200 Shot Carbine Action BB Air Rifle. But the film relates much more. Set in the ’40s, A Christmas Story is not so much a nostalgic nod to Christmas’ past as it is a testament to the universal qualities of family life, holiday traditions and boyhood. The script — adapted by director Bob Clark, Leigh Brown and Jean Shepherd — beautifully captures the absurdity and poignancy of Christmas. Darren McGavin and Melinda Dillon are well cast as the parents of the story’s protagonist, Ralphie (played by Peter Billingsley), and his younger brother Randy (Ian Petrella.) The distinctive voice of the narrator — the grown-up Ralphie — is none other than the story’s author, Jean Shepherd.
A DENNIS THE MENACE CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Comic mayhem ensues when one of the world’s most benevolently mischievous imps takes on a beloved holiday. Trouble follows Dennis Mitchell (Maxwell Perry Cotton) wherever he goes. Despite his good intentions, Dennis seems to always wreak havoc at the expense of his grumpy neighbor Mr. Wilson (Robert Wagner). With the gingerbread cookies baking and the eggnog brewing, everyone in the neighborhood is gearing up for the Christmas season except, that is, Mr. Wilson. Convinced he can get Mr. Wilson in the holiday spirit, Dennis concocts a plan to give him the ultimate gift—the gift of Christmas Spirit. (Live Action)
A FLINTSTONE CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Fred Flintstone finds out there really is a Santa Claus when the old gentleman falls off his roof and sprains his ankle. So the children of the world will not be disappointed, Fred substitutes for Santa and Barney comes along for the magical journey as an elf. (Animated)
A GARFIELD CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
In this holiday special, Garfield travels with Jon and Odie to the countryside to celebrate Christmas with Jon’s farm family. While there, Odie begins working on a mysterious gift, and Garfield stumbles upon some old love letters to Grandma. On Christmas morning, after it seems that all the presents have been opened, Garfield gives Grandma the letters he found in the barn, which turn out to be written by her late husband. And Garfield finds out that Odie’s secret gift is for him! (Animated)
A MISER BROTHERS’ CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Starring Mickey Rooney, reprising his role as Santa Claus from the holiday classic “The Year Without a Santa Claus,” “A Miser Brothers’ Christmas” tells the story of how Santa throws out his back, potentially spoiling Christmas for boys and girls all over the world. The story begins when Santa’s new chief mechanic, Tinsel, creates a speedy, new high tech sleigh for Christmas. But what Santa doesn’t know is that North Wind has secretly sabotaged the sleigh in the hope of taking Santa’s place that year. When Santa takes it out for a spin, he gets caught in the crossfire between the feuding Snow Miser and Heat Miser Brothers and the sleigh crashes, causing Santa to hurt his back. North Wind frames the Miser Brothers for Santa’s accident and with Santa stuck in bed, everything falls into place for North Wind to slyly come to the rescue. But much to his chagrin, Mother Nature punishes the Miser Brothers by forcing them to put their differences aside and fill in for Santa. (Animated)
A MUPPET’S CHRISTMAS: LETTERS TO SANTA – NBC
In “A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa,” the Emmy and Grammy-Award winning Muppets deliver a one-hour special filled with songs, mayhem and heaps of holiday high spirits. On Christmas Eve, Kermit, Fozzie, Gonzo and the rest of the gang mistakenly avert three letters from making their way to Santa Claus. Can they get the letters to Santa in time? Needless to say, nothing — not even Miss Piggy’s planned trip to the tropics — can stand between the Muppets and a Merry Christmas. The special boasts songs by Paul Williams (songwriter for “The Muppet Movie”), an all-star cast including Whoopi Goldberg, Richard Griffiths, Jane Krakowski, Tony Sirico, Steve Schirripa, Uma Thurman, Petra Nemcova, Jesse L. Martin and Madison Pettis — and a heartfelt message about the true meaning of the holiday season – makes “A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa” destined to become a new holiday family classic. The special is produced by Muppets Productions, Inc.
A VERY BRADY CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Everyone’s favorite family is reunited again in this heartwarming holiday special. The Brady kids are all grown up with families of their own. All Carol (Florence Henderson) and Mike (Robert Reed) want this year is to fly their children home this holiday season for a good old fashioned Brady Christmas. But with the kids all dealing with family problems of their own, and Sam leaving Alice for another woman, can the Bradys pull it off? (Live Action)
BILLBOARD’S NEW YEAR’S EVE LIVE – FOX
Ring in 2010 with FOX and Billboard as they celebrate the biggest night of the year from Las Vegas and New York City. Host and musical guests scheduled to appear to be announced soon. FOX cameras will be there to capture the electrifying moments as the biggest names in music rock the Las Vegas strip and the world-famous New Year’s Eve Ball makes its descent into Times Square . The New Year’s celebration will showcase some of the most memorable moments from the historic Billboard Music Awards, as well as count down the Top 10 of the year in music, movies and television.
CHASING CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
In this holiday movie, single father Jack (Tom Arnold) is visited by his old business partner and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future in an attempt to change Jack’s perspective on the holiday. Ever since his wife left him for her dentist on Christmas Eve, Jack has boycotted the holidays. But now his relationship with his sixteen-year-old daughter (Brittney Wilson) is at risk if he isn’t rescued from his terminal bah humbug ways. (Live Action)
CHRISTMAS DO-OVER – ABC Family
This holiday movie, starring Jay Mohr (“Jerry Maguire”) and Daphne Zuniga (“Beautiful People”), tells the story of Kevin (Mohr), who unwittingly gets a chance to go back and do things differently when he is forced to relive one terrible Christmas over and over again. Kevin slowly realizes this might be his last chance to get Christmas right and get back what he lost – and what he most needed all along – his family. (Live Action)
CHRISTMAS IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER – NBC
A dazzling display of musical talent and the lighting of the world’s most famous Christmas tree entertain during the 12th annual “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” telecast. The star-studded 77th annual tree lighting extravaganza will feature an array of musical superstars performing current hits and holiday classics from Rockefeller Center in New York City. Prior to the network special, WNBC NBC’s New York flagship station, will broadcast an additional live hour of the special (7-8 p.m. ET).
CRANBERRY CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Based on the popular children’s book series, “Cranberry Christmas” tells the story of a New England stalwart, Mr. Whiskers, and his efforts to keep the local skating bog from the evil clutches of his notoriously mean neighbor Cyrus Grape. With the help of young Maggie and her Granny, it’s up to Mr. Whiskers to prove the bog is his own and save Christmas day for all the children of Cranberryport. Barry Manilow wrote two original songs for this holiday special. (Animated)
DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS – TBS
Bitter and hateful, the Grinch is irritated at the thought of the nearby village having a happy time celebrating Christmas. So disguised as Santa Claus, with his dog made to look like a reindeer, he raids the village to steal all the Christmas things. The village is sure to have a sad Christmas this year. (Animated)
DR. SEUSS’ THE GRINCH GRINCHES THE CAT IN THE HAT – ABC Family
As The Cat in the Hat gets ready for a lovely picnic, the evil Grinch plots to create a contraption that captures noise and turns it into ferocious sounds – which would absolutely ruin The Cat’s plan for an afternoon picnic. In the end, The Cat in the Hat must jump in to save the world from the clutches of the Grinch! Of course, the only way to make that happen is to get to Grinch’s soft spot. (Animated)
ELOISE AT CHRISTMASTIME – ABC Family
Based on the bestselling children’s books written by Kay Thompson, the title character Eloise (Sofia Vassilieva) is warned not to interfere as the Plaza Hotel prepares for a romantic Christmas Eve wedding. But Eloise can’t resist and Nanny (Julie Andrews) cannot seem to keep her from playing matchmaker to ensure that true love will save the day. (Live Action)
FROSTY RETURNS – CBS
The magic still in his old silk hat, the holiday season’s perennially popular original dancing snowman continues his adventures and skates on the edge of danger in the animated musical special. Jonathan Winters is the narrator, with John Goodman as the voice of Frosty. Other voices are provided by comedians Jan Hooks, Andrea Martin and Brian Doyle-Murray.
The first winter storm of the season brings the magical Frosty to the snow-covered town of Beansborough just as a new invention, a snow-removal spray called Summer Wheeze, is being introduced on the market. Not only does Summer Wheeze de-ice the town’s annual Winter Carnival, it also threatens Frosty’s very existence.
FROSTY THE SNOWMAN – CBS
Comedian Jackie Vernon provides the voice of Frosty in the Christmas fable, originally broadcast Dec. 7, 1969 on the Network. The special, based on the popular song of the same title by Jack Rollins and Steve Nelson about the happy-go-lucky snowman with the “corncob pipe, a button nose and two eyes made out of coal,” features Billy De Wolfe as the voice of the villainous Professor Hinkle, a magician whose stovepipe hat transforms the lifeless snow figure into an enchanting song-and-dance man.
Pursued by the hatless professor and rising temperatures, Frosty sets off for the North Pole to keep from melting. En route, the indomitable snowman weathers a whirl of adventures and overcomes the threat of evaporation.
FROSTY’S WINTER WONDERLAND – ABC Family
An all-star cast lends its talents to this Christmas special shot in “animagic” (stop-motion animated puppetry). Everyone’s favorite snowman, Frosty, plans to marry, but not if the evil Jack Frost can help it. Can the children save Frosty from being frozen lifeless and get him to the church on time? This special is narrated by Andy Griffith and features the classic songs “Frosty the Snowman” and “Winter Wonderland.” (Animated)
GOTTA CATCH SANTA CLAUS – ABC Family
Trevor in his heart of hearts believes the big guy, Santa, is out there. That is until his friend, Veronica, challenges him asking how he can believe something he can’t see? Veronica’s doubts send Trevor on a mission to catch Santa Claus, prove his existence in the media and put everyone’s doubts to rest once and for all. Unfortunately, Santa’s nemesis, LeFreeze, is out to catch Santa too. Starring William Shatner as the voice of Santa. (Animated)
HAPPY FEET – ABC Family
In the great nation of Emperor Penguins you’re nobody unless you can sing – which is unfortunate for Mumble (Elijah Wood), who can’t sing a note. He was born dancing to his own tune…tap dancing. His one friend, Gloria (Brittany Murphy), happens to be the best singer around and she struggles with his strange “hippity-hoppity” ways. Mumble is just too different – especially for Noah the Elder (Hugo Weaving), the stern leader of Emperor Land, who ultimately casts him out of the community. Away from home for the first time, Mumble meets the Adelie Amigos. Led by Ramon (Robin Williams), the Adelies instantly embrace Mumble’s cool dance moves. In Adelie Land, Mumble seeks the counsel of Lovelace the Guru (also voiced by Robin Williams), a crazy-feathered Rockhopper penguin who will answer any of life’s questions for the price of a pebble. Together with Lovelace and the Amigos, Mumble sets out across vast landscapes and, after some epic encounters, proves that by being true to yourself, you can make all the difference in the world. (Animated)
HOLIDAY IN HANDCUFFS – ABC Family
Melissa Joan Hart and Mario Lopez star in ABC Family’s amusing holiday tale “Holiday in Handcuffs,” a story about a modern young woman who has a breakdown at Christmas and desperately kidnaps a handsome guy to take home to her parents. Can she keep her misdeed a secret from her family and convince them that they are a happy couple or will everyone’s Christmas be ruined? (Live Action)
I SAW MOMMY KISSING SANTA CLAUS – ABC Family
After learning that his best friend’s parents are getting a divorce, Justin (Dylan and Cole Sprouse) fears the worst when he sees his mother kissing Santa Claus. Justin concludes that the only way to keep Santa away from his mother on Christmas Eve is to be naughty, so he transforms into a holiday problem child. As Christmas nears, Justin fears that Santa will still appear, and when his father is trapped out of town in a snowstorm, Justin is forced to defend his home on Christmas Eve from the Ho-Ho-home wrecker. Justin learns that things aren’t always what they seem to be in this holiday special! (Live Action)
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE – NBC
NBC presents Frank Capra’s 1946 holiday classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” starring James Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore. The film follows the life of George Bailey (Stewart) from childhood to maturity in the town of Bedford Falls. On what might be his last Christmas Eve, a discouraged Bailey wants to throw his life away. Fortunately, Clarence (Henry Travers), a second-class angel, is sent to show him the value of life. After Clarence gives Bailey a view of Bedford Falls without him, Bailey realizes how precious his life is and gets a second chance. He comes to learn that Clarence was right when he said, “No man is a failure who has friends.” The film, which earned Oscar nominations for best picture, director, actor and film editing, was produced and directed by Capra.
JACK FROST (Animated) – ABC Family
Jack Frost, the icy spirit of winter, wants to leave his North Pole existence and become human for the beautiful snowwoman-turned-human he’s fallen in love with. Father Winter grants his wish, but not until Jack fights an evil giant and finds a home with a pot of gold. Filmed with stop-motion animated puppets (animagic) and featuring the classic songs “Me and My Shadow,” “The Christmas Song,” and many more. (Animated)
JACK FROST – ABC Family
The irresponsible and unreliable father of a young boy is killed in a car crash, but the father gets another chance to make things right with his son when he is reincarnated as a magical snowman. The Christmas fantasy-adventure stars Michael Keaton, Kelly Preston, Mark Addy, Henry Rollins, and pop-personalities Dweezil and Ahmet Zappa. (Live Action)
JEFF DUNHAM’S VERY SPECIAL CHRISTMAS SPECIAL – Comedy Central
The multi-platinum selling comedian performs his first holiday-themed stand-up special with his friends.
JENNIFER HUDSON: I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS – ABC
Jennifer Hudson, the multitalented actress-singer whose accolades include an Academy Award for the movie “Dreamgirls” and a Grammy for “Best R&B Album,” heads back to her hometown of Chicago to share childhood memories of the music, people and places that set the stage for her phenomenal success in her first television special, “Jennifer Hudson: I’ll Be Home for Christmas”. Joining Hudson in her first holiday music special is guest Grammy Award® winner Michael Bublé, whose new CD “Crazy Love” debuted last month at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 Chart. Bublé is set to perform the Christmas classics “Baby It’s Cold Outside” and “Let It Snow” as duets with Hudson. Hudson will also perform holiday hits such as “Silent Night,” “The Christmas Song” and “O Holy Night.”
JINGLE ALL THE WAY – ABC Family
To make up for missing his son’s karate match, Howard Langston (Arnold Schwarzenegger) promises his son Jamie (Jake Lloyd) anything he wants for Christmas. Unfortunately, like most kids his age, Jamie wants the extremely popular “Turbo Man” action figure and now, on Christmas Eve, Howard realizes he forgot to buy it. Refusing to break his word, Howard goes on a frantic last minute quest to track down the toy action figure, and stops at nothing to get his son the gift that he wants. (Live Action)
MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE – NBC
NBC officially kicks off the holiday season with thelive broadcast of the 83rd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® from New York City, co-hosted by “Today’s” Matt Lauer and Meredith Vieira, along with Al Roker. For the first time in the Parade’s 82-year history, the 2009 procession, beginning at 77th Street and Central Park West, will be taking a new route, bypassing Broadway. This year’s parade celebration will air on NBC at 9:00 a.m.-noon in all time zones.
Some of today’s brightest stars from the world of stage, screen and music will ride atop the Parade’s moving stages down the historic Broadway route. This year’s special guests include: Bello, Grandma and the cast of the Big Apple Circus, Andrea Bocelli, Boys Like Girls, Alan Cumming, Billy Currington, DJ Lance Rock and the cast of Yo Gabba Gabba!, Jimmy Fallon and The Roots, Gloria Gaynor, Emily Hughes, Kermit the Frog and Tiffany Thornton, Jane Krakowski, Ziggy Marley with Judah Marley, Katherine McPhee, Miss America 2009 Katie Stam, the cast and Muppets of Sesame Street, Mitchel Musso, Keke Palmer, The Pizzarelli Quartet, Jay Sean and Carly Simon all ringing in the start of the holiday season with NBC and Macy’s.
MERRY MADAGASCAR – NBC
DreamWorks Animation presents a brand new holiday adventure starring everyone’s favorite Central Park “zoosters.” “Merry Madagascar” begins when Santa (Carl Reiner) and his sleigh unexpectedly crash land on the island, giving the jolly gentleman a case of amnesia. So it falls to Alex (Ben Stiller), Marty (Chris Rock), Melman (David Schwimmer), and Gloria (Jada Pinkett Smith) along with the ever-inventive Penguins to deliver the presents and save Christmas. And, it doesn’t hurt that Santa’s sleigh just might be able to make a little trip to New York City so they can finally return to their beloved home. But, during their rounds, the four re-discover the magic of giving and that it’s ultimately more important than their own wish to return home. Throw in a long-lasting North Pole/South Pole rivalry between the Penguins and Santa’s Reindeer, magic flying dust and a King Julien-based holiday called (what else?) ‘Julianuary’ and “Merry Madagascar” serves up a comedic holiday story like no other! Andy Richter and “Cedric the Entertainer” also star.
MICKEY’S CHRISTMAS CAROL – ABC Family
A Disney version of the classic Dickens’ tale finds Mickey Mouse as Bob Cratchit and Scrooge McDuck as Ebenezer Scrooge. The animated special’s cast of characters also includes Minnie Mouse as Mrs. Cratchit, Goofy as Jacob Marley, Donald Duck as nephew Fred, and Jiminy Cricket as the Ghost of Christmas Past. (Animated)
MICKEY’S ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
A collection of three Christmas tales with some of Disney’s favorite characters: “Donald Duck Stuck on Christmas” find Donald’s nephews, Huey, Dewey and Louie, wishing for Christmas all year-round! “A Very Goofy Christmas” finds Goofy and Max gearing up for a visit from Santa Claus when neighbor Pete convinces Max that there is no such thing as Santa Claus. “Mickey & Minnie’s Gift of the Magi” takes Mickey and Minnie into O. Henry’s classic tale about a poor boy and girl who seek the perfect gifts to exchange with one another to make the holiday extra special. (Animated)
MICKEY’S TWICE UPON A CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Mickey and friends share tales about the importance of sharing, the necessity of opening your heart to loved ones, the appreciation of people for who they are, and the rewards of unselfishness. (Animated)
MIRACLE ON 34th STREET (1994) – ABC Family
Everyone, especially children, knows that the holiday season is a time for miracles. However, six-year-old Susan Walker has doubts about childhood’s most enduring miracle…Santa Claus. This holiday season, Susan is going to receive the most precious gift of all: something to believe in and she’s about to discover that miracles do occur. When Kris (Richard Attenborough) is put on trial to prove he’s Santa, the youngster — and everyone around her — learns the true meaning of faith, the importance of family… and that even today, we all need something to believe in. (Live Action)
NAUGHTY OR NICE – ABC Family
Henry Ramiro (George Lopez) is the reigning shock jock of Chicago sports radio who earns his living being rude. That is, until a young listener with a life threatening illness forces Henry into a deal to be nicer on the air for just one day. Henry’s amazed to discover that his false positive energy seems to be having an impact – the teenaged boy’s health starts to improve, as do the local teams’ scores – but his new persona has made him the target of constant ridicule by a competing shock jock, “The Hitman” (Roger Lodge). Not only are Henry’s bosses unhappy with his recent good behavior, Henry has other problems as well – his years of rudeness have taken a toll on his wife and daughter, and they’re just not buying his sudden change of attitude. When his family ultimately leaves him, Henry is about to give up, until his fans unite and prove to him that Christmas miracles really can happen. (Live Action)
NBC’S NEW YEAR’S EVE W/ CARSON DALY – NBC
Carson Daly’s two-hour New Year’s Eve special will air live on Thursday, December 31, beginning in primetime from 10-11 p.m. (ET), and continuing at 11:30 p.m. (ET) with the countdown to 2010 and the first performances of the New Year. “NBC’s New Year’s Eve with Carson Daly” will broadcast in high definition from the middle of the world’s most famous New Year’s Eve destination, Times Square in New York City. Musical guests Green Day will perform.
NESTOR, THE LONG-EARED CHRISTMAS DONKEY – ABC Family
“Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey” was the name given to the donkey that carried Mary to Bethlehem. Burdened with oversized ears, he was ridiculed and friendless, and soon orphaned when his mother perished in a blinding snowstorm. Leaving home, he traveled south and his life changed forever when he encountered Mary, heavy with child, who desperately needed his help. Nestor carried her across the desert under a guiding star, bringing her to Bethlehem and witnessing the birth of Baby Jesus. Filmed using a technique called animagic (stop-motion animated puppets). (Animated)
ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Christmas is coming and Santa’s (Douglas Campbell) house is buzzing with activity, but somehow the old boy’s heart isn’t in it this year. Disillusioned with all the selfishness and greed in the world he’s ready to throw in the towel, but his daughter Kristin Claus (Kathy Ireland) persuades him to give the mortals one last chance. If she can prove that even one family can change and become giving and caring again, Santa will put off his vacation in Hawaii and get back on the sleigh. Trouble is she’s saddled with the Morgan family, headed by a workaholic Dad (John Dye) and a couple of kids whose idea of good clean fun is putting peanut butter in the au pair’s underwear and glue on the school coach’s whistle. And with a sister (Mary Donnelly-Haskell) who makes Cruella de Ville look like the cutest pup in the shop ready to wreck her plans, can Kristin teach them that what you give is what you get, and stop the spirit of Christmas from disappearing forever? (Live Action)
PHINEAS AND FERB CHRISTMAS VACATION – Disney Channel
In the special, it’s Christmas Eve and an excited Phineas and Ferb are working to turn the city of Danville into a giant shimmering thank you card to Santa Claus. Meanwhile, Dr. Doofenshmirtz develops a Naughty-inator, and suddenly the Tri-state area is clouded in naughtiness and kids’ letters to Santa are returned unanswered. Two of Santa’s British elves arrive to investigate, but Phineas and Ferb must quickly devise a way to spread holiday cheer, all while Mom and Dad go to the airport to fetch Grandpa and Grandma Fletcher who’ve just arrived from England. Meanwhile, Candace tries, in a not so covert way, to figure out what’s on Jeremy’s Christmas wish list.
Guest starring are: Clancy Brown as Santa Claus, Jane Carr as Grandma Fletcher, Malcolm McDowell as Grandpa Fletcher, Mathew Horne as elf Blay’n and Bruce MacKinnon as elf Clewn’t.
PINOCCHIO’S CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Carlo Collodi’s most famous puppet creation stars in a musical tale that finds the poor lad Pinocchio conned out of money intended for Papa Geppetto’s Christmas gift. The Christmas special was filmed using slow-motion animated puppets and features holiday classic songs. (Animated)
PIXAR SHORT FILMS – ABC Family
Get ready for a fun-filled night of Walt Disney Pictures Presents “Pixar Short Films” that will include the following twenty film shorts: “Presto,” “Lifted,” “Jack-Jack Attack,” “BURN-E,” “Unidentified Flying Mater,” “Adventures of Andre and Wally B.,” “Boundin,” “For the Birds,” “Geri’s Game,” “Knick Knack,” “Luxo Jr.,” “Mater and the Ghostlight,” “Mike’s New Car,” “One Man Band,” “Red’s Dream,” “Tin Toy,” “Your Friend the Rat,” “Rescue Squad Mater,” “Mater the Greater” and “El-Materdor.” (Animated)
RICHIE RICH’S CHRISTMAS WISH – ABC Family
America’s richest kid is back with more fantastic toys and incredible adventures. When Richie Rich’s nasty cousin Reggie Van Dough causes Richie’s sleigh full of orphans’ Christmas gifts to run down pedestrians, attack neighborhood homes and fly past the orphanage, Richie (David Gallagher) wishes he was never born. But he gets more than he bargained for when Professor Keanbean (Eugene Levy) invents a wishing machine that magically transports Richie to an alternate universe where Reggie rules with an iron fist, Richie’s personal valet Cadbury is a heavy-metal roadie, his robot-servant Irona is a fire-breathing cyborg and Richie’s loveable dog Dollar is forlorn. Through an action-packed chase and museum heist, Richie and his friends race against time to outwit Reggie and find the wishing machine so Richie can return to reality and save Christmas. (Live Action)
RUDOLPH’S SHINY NEW YEAR – ABC Family
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has a new problem: Baby New Year has run away from Father Time and Santa has sent Rudolph after him. The future is riding on Rudolph’s success – without a Baby New Year to ring in the next year, December 31st will last forever and thereby eliminate all future Christmases. (Animated)
RUDOLPH & FROSTY’S CHRISTMAS IN JULY – ABC Family
Rudolph’s magical glowing nose is not only helpful at Christmas but also in the heat of summer when Rudolph and his friend, Frosty the Snowman, are called in to rescue a struggling circus at a special July 4th benefit. But big-time trouble comes to their big-top act when Winterbolt appears and is intent on stealing Frosty’s magic hat and extinguish Rudolph’s legendary nose! This fun-filled fable is a must-see for all seasons, featuring the voices of Mickey Rooney, Ethel Merman, Red Buttons and Shelley Winters. (Animated)
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER – CBS
The special, narrated by Burl Ives, who is also heard as the voice of Sam the Snowman, is a musical story based on the popular song of the same title by Johnny Marks. It recounts the tale of a shy reindeer whose Christmas spirit is dampened because his shiny nose has made him the laughing stock of all Christmasville.
Pursued by an Abominable Snowmonster, inhabitants of Christmasville flee to the island of Misfit Toys in the Arctic wilderness where Yukon Cornelius, a prospector they meet along the way, comes to their rescue. Returning to Christmasville, they learn that bad weather may cause Christmas to be canceled. But Rudolph’s headlight – his illuminated nose – saves the “foggy Christmas Eve” by serving as a beacon to guide Santa’s sleigh.
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER AND THE ISLAND OF MISFIT TOYS – ABC Family
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is out to save Christmas once again in this stop-motion animated holiday musical. When the Evil Toy Taker steals all of Santa’s toys, Rudolph and his friends – the misfit toys – set out to get them back before the world’s children wake up to empty stockings on Christmas morning! (Animated)
SANTA BABY – ABC Family
In the ABC Family holiday movie “Santa Baby,” Mary Class (Jenny McCarthy) is a highly driven business executive whose great success is acknowledged by everyone but her father, who just happens to be Santa Claus (George Wendt). Tired of not being recognized for her ideas on modernizing Christmas, Mary flees to the big city, not only leaving home, but also abandoning her loyal local boyfriend, Luke (Ivan Sergei). Four years later, after learning that Santa has fallen ill and is having trouble finishing preparations for Christmas, Mary eagerly returns home to the North Pole to implement her innovative ideas. This year is going to be Mary’s Christmas. (Live Action)
SANTA BABY 2: CHRISTMAS MAYBE – ABC Family
Jenny McCarthy reprises her role as Mary Class, Santa’s business minded daughter, starring alongside Paul Sorvino and Dean McDermott. Santa (Sorvino) is in the midst of a late-life crisis and is ready to pass on the reins to Mary, who is torn between taking over the family business and running her own high stakes firm in New York City, all the while trying to balance her relationship with the love of her life, Luke (McDermott). The situation gets increasingly dire when a disgruntled former elf, Teri (Kelly Stables), in cunning disguise, sows dissension at the North Pole in an effort to take over Christmas. (Live Action)
SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN’ TO TOWN – ABC Family
Fred Astaire narrates this tale of Kris Kringle (Mickey Rooney), a young boy with an immense desire to do good things for others. In his home village of Sombertown, Kris has started a gift factory where he builds toys and gives them to all the local children. But when the evil ruler, Burgermeister (Paul Frees), bans toys from the land, Kris is forced to go directly to Mother Nature and ask her for assistance. With the help of magical elves and several special reindeer, Kris overcomes the Burgermeister and delivers toys to children all over the world, earning him the name Santa Claus. (Animated)
SANTA CLAUSE 2 – ABC Family
After eight years as the jolly old St. Nick, Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) has grown to truly love his job as Santa Claus. However, things start to fall apart when an overlooked clause is brought to his attention – he must find a wife or he will lose his job as Santa. (Live Action)
SANTA CLAUSE 3: THE ESCAPE CLAUSE – ABC Family
Holiday magic mixes with comical chaos as Tim Allen reprises his role of Scott Calvin, aka Santa, as he juggles a full house of family and the mischievous Jack Frost (Martin Short)–whose chilling Santa envy has him trying to take over the “big guy’s” holiday. Along for the adventure is Scott’s extended family: son Charlie (Eric Lloyd); ex-wife Laura (Wendy Crewson); her husband Neil (Judge Reinhold); and their daughter Lucy (Liliana Mumy), who together with Head Elf Curtis (Spencer Breslin) must foil Jack Frost’s crafty scheme to control the North Pole. (Live Action)
SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE CHRISTMAS 2009 – NBC
This new holiday special features the funniest and most festive holiday sketches from “Saturday Night Live’s” 35-year history. Lorne Michaels is the executive producer and Marci Klein produces.
SNOW – ABC Family
In a reinvention of the Santa Claus myth, this ABC Family holiday movie finds Nick (Tom Cavanagh) reluctantly taking over the family business at the North Pole. As if that wasn’t pressure enough, with only three days before the big night, one of Nick’s young reindeer, Buddy, is captured and taken to a zoo. In the course of his adventures to rescue the reindeer, Nick touches the lives of those at a boarding house including Sandy (Ashley Williams), and eight-year-old-Hector (Bobb’e Thompson) who lives there with his mom. Nick tries to bring back the spirit of Christmas they lost long ago, and in the process, finds his true love. (Live Action)
SNOW 2: BRAIN FREEZE – ABC Family
Tom Cavanagh reprises his role as Nick Snowden, aka “Santa,” in “Snow 2 Brain Freeze.” Nick is preparing for his biggest day of the year – Christmas! In the rush of getting his reindeer ready, he jumps through his magic mirror and hits his head upon landing, causing Nick to lose his memory and forget who he is! With just days before Christmas, his wife Sandy (Ashley Williams), is desperate to find her husband and enlists the help of her old boyfriend Buck (Patrick Fabian), who pretends to help but has no true intention of reuniting them. With the help of some new friends, Nick’s memory starts to trickle back, but will he remember that he is Santa in time for Christmas? “Snow 2 Brain Freeze” was written by Rich Burns, directed by Mark Rosman and executive produced by Phil Kruener. (Live Action)
SNOWGLOBE – ABC Family
In the ABC Family holiday movie, a mystical snowglobe transports Angela (Christina Milian), who longs for the perfect Christmas away from her boisterous family, into an idyllic Christmas winter wonderland. But when the two worlds unexpectedly collide, Angela struggles to reconcile the situation and ultimately has to make a choice about what really defines her perfect Christmas. (Live Action)
SONS OF MISTLETOE – ABC Family
An heiress, Helen Radke (Roma Downey), returns home during the holidays following her father’s death to settle his estate, which includes a boys’ home established by him over sixty years ago. The home is run by Jimmy (George Newbern), who grew up there, and he must convince Helen not to sell it. If she does, she risks leaving the boys who live there homeless for the holidays. (Live Action)
STEALING CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Tony Danza stars as Jack Clayton, a small town crook who finds himself in hot water after a botched heist at a shopping mall. In an attempt to elude the cops, he narrowly escapes by wearing a Santa suit and slips away on a bus. Jack arrives in the small town of Evergreen and in a case of mistaken identity, he lands a job playing Santa at a Christmas tree lot where he meets Sarah (Lea Thompson), a kind single mother. After gaining the trust of the town, Jack conspires to rob the local bank on Christmas Eve – but instead finds himself choosing between a big score and true love. (Live Action)
THE DOG WHO SAVED CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Christmas chaos ensues for the Bannister family when they adopt a misguided guard dog, Zeus (voiced by Mario Lopez), to try and keep their home safe from neighborhood prowlers. Although he is a loveable pooch, the Bannister’s quickly discover Zeus is not your typical guard dog. The family takes a liking to Zeus, but heads to Grandma’s house for a Christmas visit discouraged. While away, two inept thieves (Dean Cain, Joey Diaz) break into the Bannister’s home. Chaos turns to comedy when Zeus realizes his true guard dog potential and attempts to outwit the intruders – beating them at their own game. Zeus undoubtedly rises to the occasion when it matters most, but can he save Christmas and ultimately earn his place within the Bannister family? (Live Action)
THE CHRISTMAS LIST – ABC Family
Perfume saleslady Melody Parris (Mimi Rogers) feels like her life is stuck in neutral. Her stick-in-the mud boyfriend won’t commit and she gets passed over for a promotion at the store where she works. She decides to make a Christmas list. After it’s deposited in Santa’s mailbox at the store, she starts getting everything she wanted, but it doesn’t always turn out as she expected. (Live Action)
THE FLIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS – CBS
THE FLIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS features the voices of Emma Roberts (“Nancy Drew,” “Aquamarine”) and comedian Norm MacDonald (“Saturday Night Live”).
Niko the reindeer boy yearns to fly just like his Dad whom he believes is a member of Santa’s Flying Forces. Following an attack by wolves on his herd’s peaceful home, he heads off on a desperate, dangerous mission through icy blizzards and across wild terrain to find his father. He discovers a devious plan to destroy and replace the famous flying squadron by the evil Black Wolf and his gang.
On his heroic journey to find his father and save Christmas, Niko is accompanied by his constant friend and surrogate father Julius, a clumsy squirrel who has nurtured and indulged the boy’s dream. Julius knows he has to persuade Niko to return home to the safety of the herd, but much to his annoyance they are then joined by Wilma, a sassy young singing weasel who actually knows the way to Santa’s home. As the brave trio encounters challenges on their hazardous journey, Niko faces the biggest one when he must choose between the life he has dreamed about and a life with his family.
THE LIFE & ADVENTURES OF SANTA CLAUS – ABC Family
This delightful holiday special tells the story of how Santa Claus was once a mortal who, in his desire to alleviate endless examples of inhumanity to men, began giving gifts to children on Christmas day. His selflessness earned him a reputation as a saint and he was rewarded with immortality so he could continue doing his work, and in the process, fulfilling the Christmas wishes of boys and girls around the world. Based on the story by Wizard of Oz creator Frank L. Baum and filmed using animagic (stop-motion animated puppetry). (Animated)
THE LEPRECHAUNS’ CHRISTMAS GOLD – ABC Family
In this Christmas fairy tale, loveable leprechaun Dinty Doyle sets out to find the perfect Christmas tree for his family. After stumbling upon a mysterious island off the coast of Ireland, he takes a beautiful tree home to the land of Wee People. Little does he know the tree is actually a prison cell holding an evil banshee. With her bag of tricks, the banshee escapes from the tree and devises a plan to steal the land’s gold and ruin the Wee People’s Christmas. With the help of Lord Patrick, King of the Wee People, Dinty must stop the banshee before it’s too late. (Animated)
THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY – ABC Family
Based on the Christmas song, the “Little Drummer Boy” tells the story of Aaron, a young poor boy who cannot afford to buy a present for baby Jesus and instead plays a special song for him on his drums. Amazingly, baby Jesus seems to understand and gives Aaron a smile of gratitude. This animated classic stars the voices of Greer Garson as “Our Storyteller” and features the singing of the Vienna Boys’ Choir. (Animated)
THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY BOOK II – ABC Family
In this sequel to the famous Christmas tale, the drummer boy and a wise man set out in search of a set of pure silver bells to present to the baby Jesus. The bells, made twenty years earlier, have been repossessed by tax collectors and it’s up to the little boy to recover them. The special features the Christmas classics “Do You Hear What I Hear?” and “The Little Drummer Boy” performed by the Vienna Boys Choir. Filmed using stop-motion animated puppets. (Animated)
THE LITTLE RASCALS CHRISTMAS SPECIAL – ABC Family
A delightful 30-minute animated special in which the Little Rascals discover the true spirit of Christmas. The whole gang cooks up a scheme to buy Spanky’s and Porky’s mom a new coat…. and scheme they do! (Animated)
THE POLAR EXPRESS – ABC Family
This holiday season the Academy Award-winning team of Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump, Cast Away) reunite for The Polar Express, an inspiring adventure based on the beloved Caldecott Medal children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. (Animated)
THE SANTA CLAUSE – TBS
A divorced yuppie father’s strained relationship with his son begins to mend after a bizarre twist of fate transforms him into the new Santa.
THE STORY OF THE FIRST CHRISTMAS SNOW – ABC Family
When a young shepherd named Lucas is struck by lightning and left blind, a group of nuns take him in to their abbey. Here he begins his journey back to health, drawing strength from the love of the nuns and other children. After being chosen to perform the role of the angel in the Christmas play, snow begins to fall and a small miracle is performed. Angela Lansbury narrates this Christmas classic. (Animated)
THE THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE – CBS
Maggie Rodriguez and Dave Price from CBS News’ “The Early Show” will anchor the parade live from New York City.
The special, a CBS Thanksgiving tradition celebrating its 49th year, will feature the 83rd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade live from New York City, as well as a performance by country music artist Reba McEntire. McEntire is the winner of two Grammy Awards, seven Country Music Association Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, nine People’s Choice Awards and 15 American Music Awards. The Oklahoma native has also found success in television, where her self-titled primetime television series was a top-rated sitcom for six seasons, on Broadway, where she received rave reviews for her irresistible performance in “Annie Get Your Gun,” and in film. Additional performances during the parade include the Broadway casts of “West Side Story” and “Ragtime” and the off-Broadway cast of “Dreamgirls.”
Jamie Kennedy (“Ghost Whisperer”) will offer an additional viewpoint of the parade as the “Man on the Street” as he reports and interacts with the crowd.
THE THANKSGIVING THAT ALMOST WASN’T – Boomerang
On Thanksgiving Day 1972, Hanna-Barbera, the world’s leading producer of animated television entertainment, premiered a 30-minute original holiday special to remind everyone that there is always a reason to give thanks: The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn’t. Featuring a cast of Hanna-Barbera’s best vocal talent such as June Foray (Looney Tunes, Rocky and Bullwinkle) and Don Messick (Scooby-Doo, The Jetsons), The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn’t is a story about friendship that is also full of adventure. Set in 1621, The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn’t chronicles one dangerously fateful day for Johnny Cooke, a young Pilgrim boy, and Little Bear, an Indian boy, who are discovered to be missing. The first Thanksgiving feast cannot start without them, and when their friend Jeremy Squirrel hears they are in peril he goes on a daring rescue mission. He braves waterfalls and snarling timber wolves to save his friends and succeeds in saving them and therefore Thanksgiving Day itself. The little hero is then invited to be guest of honor at this very special feast.
THE YEAR WITHOUT A SANTA CLAUS – ABC Family
Mrs. Claus narrates this memorable children’s classic about the time she almost donned her husband’s famous red suit. Disenchanted with the lack of holiday spirit throughout the land, Santa (voiced by Mickey Rooney) decides not to deliver presents and Mrs. Claus and all the elves have to convince him to make his traditional Christmas Eve sleigh ride. Based on Pulitzer Prize-winner Phyllis McGinley’s children’s book and filmed using stop-motion animated puppets. The special is filled with Christmas classics including “Here Comes Santa Claus.” (Animated)
TOURNAMENT OF ROSES PARADE – NBC
NBC’s live, high-definition coverage of the “121st Tournament of Roses Parade” from Pasadena, California will feature heroic pilot Captain Chesley Sullenberger as this year’s Grand Marshal. The parade, whose theme this year will be “A Cut Above The Rest,” will feature all the lavish floral floats, spectacular marching bands and high-stepping equestrian teams that have made the New Year’s Day event so popular. This year’s Rose Queen and her court will also appear, along with special guests on spectacular floats, all paying tribute to everyday heroes. NBC has been broadcasting the New Year’s Day parade for 83 years, beginning on radio in 1927 and then televising the event beginning in 1954. Arthur Forrest is the executive producer/director, Carol Kahl is the supervising producer and Stephanie Prescott is the coordinating producer for NBC Entertainment. Tom Patino is the line producer.
(TTC NOTE: Try watching the parade on the Home & Garden Network – no commercials and every single float!)
‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Actor Joel Grey narrates this animated holiday special adapted from the famous poem by Clement Moore. A kindly clockmaker, a friendly family of mice and a sensitive Santa Claus come together in a story where the citizens are afraid that Santa will pass them by because an unsigned letter to the editor of the local paper denounced him as a myth. (Animated)
TWICE UPON A CHRISTMAS – ABC Family
Now a devoted nanny to the Morgan family, Kristin Clause (Kathy Ireland) is suffering from acute memory loss. Little does she know that her father is Santa Claus, living in the North Pole with her mother, Mrs. Claus, and mischievous sister Rudolpha (Mary Donnelly-Haskell). As Kristin grows closer to the Morgan family, the answer to who she is seems ever more elusive. But then a big surprise – a proposal of marriage from Bill (John Dye)! Torn between her love for the Morgan family and the life she can’t remember, she agrees to marry Bill on Christmas Day – but only if they first solve the mystery of her identity. Back at the North Pole, trouble is brewing. In Kristin’s absence, the scheming Rudolpha sets about sabotaging Christmas. To clear the way for a lucrative property deal, she launches a TV advertising campaign to sell off the North Pole, piece by piece. Christmas is under threat. Santa could be out of a job! With Christmas fast approaching, Kristin is still struggling for answers. When a bizarre coincidence helps everything to click into place, Kristin realizes that she must again save Christmas or see Santa forced into early retirement! (Live Action)
UNACCOMPANIED MINORS – ABC Family
Wilmer Valderrama stars in this holiday romp that finds a huge blizzard shutting down Hoover International Airport on Christmas Eve. En route to their father’s house for the holidays, Spencer (Dyllan Christopher) and his little sister, Katherine (Dominique Saldaña), are ushered to the airport’s Unaccompanied Minors Room, a holding cell for dozens of stranded, parent-free kids from all over the country. Desperate to escape, Spencer makes a run for freedom along with four other UMs. With every airport security guard hot on their trail, along with the attendant (Valderrama) responsible for their care, the very different kids learn to ditch their differences and help each other flee the clutches of airport authority. They turn Christmas at the airport into holiday pandemonium and, along the way, prove that the holidays aren’t about where you are, but who is there to share them with you. (Live Action)
UNLIKELY ANGEL – ABC Family
When brassy lounge singer Ruby Diamond (Dolly Parton) accidentally drives her car off a cliff, she meets St. Peter (Roddy McDowell) at the Pearly Gates. Peter wants to send Ruby back because she hasn’t earned her “wings.” He notes that Ruby has only looked out for herself all her life and he assigns her to help out a family in distress. Peter gives Ruby until Christmas to set things right. (Live Action)
WINNIE THE POOH AND CHRISTMAS TOO – ABC Family
In this Christmas classic, Winnie the Pooh and Piglet rush to get Christopher Robin’s letter to Santa before it’s too late. With many obstacles before them, they learn the true meaning of Christmas. (Animated)
WWE TRIBUTE TO THE TROOPS – NBC
WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, along with today’s top WWE Superstars and Divas will visit the troops on the front lines of Iraq and perform a special holiday show. The WWE has visited the troops for seven straight seasons, the only entertainers to do this.
YES, VIRGINIA – CBS
YES, VIRGINIA tells the story of 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon (Beatrice Miller, “Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs”), a young girl growing up in late 1800s New York City who always loved Christmas, until the playground bully, Charlotte (Julian Franco) tells her and the other children that Santa Claus doesn’t exist. Not sure what to believe, Virginia and her friend, Ollie (Kieran Patrick Campbell), venture into the streets of New York City to uncover the truth. Along the way, they encounter a Scraggly Santa (Michael Buscemi, “Nurse Jackie”) who is trying to raise money for the less fortunate (he admits he’s not the real deal, but someone who sort of works for Santa Claus), an over-eager librarian with a shelf full of Christmas books, and interesting advice from Virginia’s quirky scientist father (Neil Patrick Harris, “How I Met Your Mother”) and understanding mother (Jennifer Love Hewitt, “Ghost Whisperer”). Unable to find the answer, Virginia decides to write a letter to the New York Sun newspaper, knowing that their reputation for reporting the facts is cemented by their motto “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so!” Virginia’s letter makes its way to the curmudgeonly editor, Francis Church (Alfred Molina, “Frida,” “Spider-Man 2”), who feels he has better things to do than respond to a little girl’s question. But, with Virginia’s determination, and a little help from Scraggly Santa, Mr. Church is persuaded to write the answer that became the most famous newspaper editorial of all time: “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus!”
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