How Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Became a Christmas Classic

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has charmed audiences for over 60 years with its heartwarming message of inclusiveness and acceptance. But few may realize that this holiday tale began as a short story in 1939 and took over two decades to reach the small screen in its now iconic form. Let's take a look at the journey of Rudolph from printed page to television and how it became one of the most watched and beloved Christmas specials of all time.

Origins as a Promotional Story

The story of Rudolph was written in 1939 by Robert L. May for Montgomery Ward, a department store looking to distribute a free children's book to promote Christmas shopping. Written by May in just two hours, the story follows Rudolph, a young reindeer who is bullied for his bright red nose but ultimately saves Christmas. Over the next few years, the book became a surprise hit for Montgomery Ward and was reprinted many times. Yet it would still be over 20 years until Rudolph found his way to television.

Acquisition by Rankin/Bass Productions

In the early 1960s, animators Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass acquired the rights to adapt Rudolph into a half-hour animated Christmas special under their company Rankin/Bass Productions. Known for their stop-motion "Animagic" technique that combined puppets with animation, Rankin/Bass developed Rudolph into the musical special we know today with the help of songwriter Johnny Marks. It took over a year and $150,000 to complete the special, which featured the voices of legendary performers like Burl Ives as Sam the Snowman.

Broadcast and Immediate Success

When Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer first aired on NBC on December 6, 1964, it was an instant ratings success, becoming the highest-rated television special of its time. An estimated 45 million viewers tuned in that year, captivated by the heartwarming message and catchy songs like "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "A Holly Jolly Christmas." Its success cemented its place as an annual tradition that continues to this day.

Legacy and Pop Culture Impact

In the decades since its 1964 debut, Rudolph has been broadcast every year during the Christmas season and released on home video formats, keeping its holiday spirit alive for new generations of families. The special's characters like Hermey the Elf and the Abominable Snow Monster have become iconic figures of Christmas lore. Rudolph also inspired the 1998 big-screen adaptation and has had a significant pop culture presence through merchandise, theme park attractions and more. Its message of celebrating differences has resonated with audiences globally, cementing Rudolph's status as the most famous reindeer of all.

FAQs

Who wrote the original Rudolph story?

The original Rudolph story was written in 1939 by Robert L. May as a promotional Christmas book for the Montgomery Ward department store.

What animation technique did Rankin/Bass use for Rudolph?

Rankin/Bass Productions used their signature "Animagic" technique, which combined stop-motion puppet animation with cel animation, to bring Rudolph to life in the 1964 TV special.

Who voiced the characters in the 1964 special?

Notable voice actors in the original 1964 Rudolph special included Burl Ives as Sam the Snowman, Billie Mae Richards as Rudolph, and Stan Francis as Hermey.

How many times has the Rudolph special aired on TV?

The 1964 Rudolph special has aired annually on American television during the Christmas season every year since its original airing.

Has Rudolph inspired any movies or other TV specials?

Yes, there was a full-length 1998 live-action/CGI adaptation of Rudolph as well as several new TV movies and specials produced by Rankin/Bass in the 1970s-90s.