In a surprising shake-up of holiday television traditions, beloved Christmas specials "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Frosty the Snowman" are set to move from their long-time home on CBS to NBC starting in 2024.
The iconic animated classics, which have been staples of CBS's holiday programming for decades, will now air on NBC on December 6th and 12th for "Rudolph," and December 5th and 12th for "Frosty."
This unexpected change marks a significant shift in the landscape of holiday television. For many viewers, these specials have been synonymous with CBS's Christmas lineup, creating a tradition that spans generations.
"Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer," which first aired in 1964, tells the heartwarming story of a misfit reindeer who saves Christmas with his glowing red nose. "Frosty the Snowman," debuting in 1969, follows the magical adventures of a snowman brought to life by a special hat.
While the move may come as a surprise to many, NBC is likely hoping to bolster its own holiday programming with these beloved classics. The network already airs other popular Christmas specials, including "How the Grinch Stole Christmas."
For viewers, the good news is that these cherished holiday favorites will still be available on network television, maintaining their accessibility to a wide audience. However, fans will need to adjust their viewing habits and remember to tune into NBC instead of CBS for their annual dose of Rudolph and Frosty.
As the holiday season approaches, it remains to be seen how this change will impact viewership and whether it will alter the long-standing traditions of families across the country. Regardless of the network, these timeless stories continue to captivate audiences and spread holiday cheer year after year.