How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966): A Holiday Classic That Made History

Few holiday specials have achieved the timeless magic of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966). Directed by animation legend Chuck Jones and narrated by Boris Karloff, this adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s 1957 book is more than a cartoon—it’s a cultural artifact that continues to shape holiday traditions.

The Heart of the Story

At its core, the special reminds us that Christmas isn’t about presents or decorations—it’s about community, kindness, and joy. The Grinch’s transformation from bitter recluse to beloved guest of Whoville is a parable that resonates across generations.

The Grinch Goes Green

In Dr. Seuss’s original book, the Grinch was drawn in black and white. Chuck Jones gave him his now-iconic green color, a creative decision that forever defined the character’s look. That shade of green became shorthand for mischief and cynicism in pop culture, influencing later adaptations and even slang.

From War to Whoville

Jones and Seuss (Theodor Geisel) first collaborated during World War II, creating the “Private Snafu” cartoons to train soldiers. Their wartime partnership laid the groundwork for this holiday special two decades later. The Grinch’s story, with its themes of redemption and community, echoed the optimism of postwar America.

The Price of Magic

When it aired on December 18, 1966, the special cost $315,000 to produce—making it the most expensive animated TV project of its time. For comparison, A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) cost under $100,000. That investment paid off: the Grinch became a holiday staple, rebroadcast annually and eventually released on home video and then dvd, which I purchased in 2001.

A Song That Stuck

The unforgettable “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” was sung by Thurl Ravenscroft, best known as the voice of Tony the Tiger. Ravenscroft went uncredited in the original broadcast, but his booming voice became inseparable from the Grinch’s persona. Today, the song is as much a part of Christmas playlists as carols and jingles. My favorite lyrics have to be, "You're a vile one, Mr. Grinch, You have termites in your smile, You have all the tender sweetness, Of a seasick crocodile, Mr. Grinch, Given a choice between the two of you, I'd take the seasick crocodile"

The Legacy of the Grinch

The Grinch has grown far beyond his 1966 television debut, becoming one of the most enduring figures in holiday culture.

Annual Tradition: The original special still airs every December, cementing itself as a ritual for families across generations.

Cultural Icon: “Don’t be a Grinch” entered everyday slang as a playful warning against holiday grouchiness.

Expanding Universe: The character inspired multiple adaptations, including the 2000 live-action film starring Jim Carrey and the 2018 animated reboot with Benedict Cumberbatch. Each brought new interpretations, but the 1966 version remains the definitive touchstone.

Merchandising & Media: From toys and costumes to memes and parodies, the Grinch has become a brand unto himself, rivaling Santa Claus as a recognizable holiday figure.

Timeless Message: At its heart, the Grinch’s story continues to remind audiences that joy and community matter more than material possessions—a message that resonates as strongly today as it did in the 1960s.

The Grinch has been reimagined countless times, but the 1966 original remains a touchstone of holiday nostalgia. Which Grinch lives in your tradition—the green original, Carrey’s wild take, or Cumberbatch’s modern spin? Psycho Bob and I agree, that the original will always hold a special spot in our childhood memories. Share your favorite memory below and join the Whoville chorus.