Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Returns to NBC: Celebrate 60 Years of Holiday Magic

The holiday season is upon us, and it’s time to welcome back one of the most beloved Christmas classics of all time—Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. This year, the cherished stop-motion special returns to its original network, NBC, marking a historic 60th-anniversary celebration. It’s a moment that will delight generations of viewers who have grown up watching Rudolph’s timeless tale of courage, friendship, and self-discovery.

Here’s everything you need to know about Rudolph’s homecoming, why it’s so unique, and how to watch this holiday classic.

Rudolph’s Journey Through Time: A Beloved Christmas Staple

First airing on December 6, 1964, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer became an instant holiday sensation. Produced by Rankin/Bass Productions, the magical story follows Rudolph, a young reindeer born with a glowing red nose, as he learns to embrace his uniqueness and save Christmas. The heartwarming tale, set to Johnny Marks’ unforgettable music, has been a cornerstone of holiday programming for decades.

The special was created initially for NBC as part of a holiday collaboration with General Electric. It featured an innovative stop-motion animation technique known as “Animagic,” along with a star-studded voice cast led by Burl Ives, who narrates the story as the charming Sam the Snowman. Rudolph’s adventure captured viewers’ hearts everywhere, from the misfit toys to the Abominable Snow Monster and the lovable Hermey the elf.

Why Rudolph’s Return to NBC Matters

For the first time in more than 50 years, NBC will air Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer again. After its initial run on NBC, the rights to Rudolph shifted to CBS in 1972, where it has remained ever since. This year, however, the iconic special is coming full circle, airing on its original network to commemorate its 60th anniversary.

NBC is making the occasion even more meaningful by airing Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer on the same date and time as its debut 60 years ago: Friday, December 6, at 8 p.m. ET. The network will feature an encore presentation on December 12 at 8 p.m. ET to ensure fans don’t get all the benefits.

This homecoming marks a significant milestone for Rudolph and the legacy of holiday specials on television. By bringing the story back to where it all began, NBC is rekindling a sense of nostalgia for older viewers while introducing Rudolph to a new generation of fans.

The Making of a Christmas Classic

The creation of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer was groundbreaking for its time. Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, the creative minds behind Rankin/Bass Productions, transformed Robert L. May’s 1939 poem and Johnny Marks’ 1949 hit song into a full-fledged Christmas adventure.

Using stop-motion animation, the production team collaborated with MOM Productions in Tokyo to bring the story to life. This painstakingly detailed process involved creating miniature characters and moving them frame by frame. The result was magical, with characters that felt as authentic and vibrant as the story they told.

Adding to the charm was the music. Burl Ives lent his iconic voice to the project, narrating the story and singing songs like “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” These tracks became instant Christmas classics, adding to the special’s lasting appeal.

Rudolph’s Enduring Legacy

The success of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in 1964 paved the way for a new era of Christmas programming. Inspired by Rudolph’s popularity, other networks and production companies began developing their holiday specials, leading to the creation of A Charlie Brown Christmas in 1965 and How the Grinch Stole Christmas in 1966.

Rankin/Bass Productions also continued its tradition of creating holiday magic with classics like Frosty the Snowman, Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town, and The Year Without a Santa Claus. Rudolph himself starred in follow-up specials like Rudolph’s Shiny New Year (1976) and Rudolph and Frosty’s Christmas in July (1979).

Beyond its influence on holiday programming, Rudolph has become a symbol of resilience and inclusivity. His story of overcoming adversity and embracing individuality resonates with audiences of all ages, making it as relevant today as it was in 1964.

How to Watch Rudolph This Holiday Season

For those eager to watch Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, NBC is the go-to destination this year. Here’s the complete broadcast schedule:

• Friday, December 6, at 8 p.m. ET: Premiere airing on NBC
• Thursday, December 12, at 8 p.m. ET: Encore presentation on NBC

In addition to its NBC broadcasts, Rudolph will feature prominently in Freeform’s “25 Days of Christmas” lineup, airing multiple times throughout December. Check your local listings for exact dates and times.

For streaming enthusiasts, Rudolph is available on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Tubi TV, and Pluto TV. While it’s not included in standard subscriptions, viewers can purchase the special for $7.99 on Amazon Prime and Apple TV.

Why Rudolph Still Matters

In a world filled with new holiday movies and TV specials, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a timeless masterpiece. Its themes of acceptance, kindness, and perseverance continue to inspire viewers, reminding us of the season’s true spirit.

Rudolph’s return to NBC is more than just a broadcast—it’s a celebration of a cultural icon that has brought joy to millions. Whether you’re watching for the first time or the fiftieth, the magic of Rudolph’s story never fades. So, gather your loved ones, grab some hot cocoa, and tune in to experience the wonder of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer this holiday season.

Mark Your Calendar!

Don’t miss this historic holiday event:

• What: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 60th Anniversary Special
• When: Friday, December 6, at 8 p.m. ET (Encore on December 12)
• Where: NBC (also available on Freeform and select streaming platforms)

Celebrate the magic of the holidays with Rudolph and his unforgettable adventure. After all, no Christmas season is complete without the red-nosed reindeer who saved the day.