The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it the familiar scent of pine needles, the twinkling of lights, and the yearning for classic Christmas entertainment. Among the most beloved of these traditions is watching the grumpy green Grinch attempt (and ultimately fail) to steal Christmas. But the burning question on everyone’s mind is: Will The Grinch be on TV this Christmas 2021? Let’s dive into the specifics and explore all the ways you can get your Grinch fix this holiday season.
Unwrapping the Mystery: Where to Find The Grinch in 2021
Determining where and when The Grinch will air on television requires a bit of detective work. Cable schedules change frequently, and streaming options are constantly evolving. We need to consider both the classic animated version (“How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”) and the live-action adaptation starring Jim Carrey.
The Classic Animated Grinch: A Timeless Treasure
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” (1966) is a holiday staple. This animated gem, narrated by Boris Karloff, is a short and sweet story that captures the true meaning of Christmas.
Finding it on TV often involves keeping a close watch on network schedules, particularly those of channels like NBC and ABC, which have historically aired it. Keep an eye on your local listings and TV guides leading up to Christmas. They are frequently broadcasted during prime holiday viewing times. Check websites for TV networks such as Freeform.
Streaming is another reliable option. Services like Peacock, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video often feature holiday movie selections, and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” is a strong contender. Check these platforms throughout December to see if it’s available for streaming.
The Live-Action Grinch: Carrey’s Christmas Chaos
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000), starring Jim Carrey, offers a different take on the Grinch story, complete with elaborate sets and Carrey’s signature comedic style.
Similar to the animated version, television airings depend on network agreements. The same channels mentioned previously (NBC, ABC, and Freeform) are potential candidates.
Streaming services are once again a great bet. The live-action Grinch is often available on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. Additionally, check for rental options on services such as Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu.
The Animated Film: “The Grinch” (2018)
Illumination Entertainment’s “The Grinch,” released in 2018, presents a more modern animated interpretation of the classic story. This version features Benedict Cumberbatch as the voice of the Grinch.
Given its relatively recent release, this version might see more frequent airings on family-oriented channels. Expect possible showings on networks like Nickelodeon or Cartoon Network.
Streaming platforms also are likely to offer this version. Check your preferred streaming service for availability.
Beyond Television: Other Ways to Get Your Grinch Fix
Even if The Grinch isn’t on TV when you want it to be, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the story.
On-Demand and Digital Purchases
Most digital retailers, such as Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and Vudu, offer The Grinch for purchase or rental. This gives you the freedom to watch it whenever you want, without relying on a TV schedule.
Physical Media: DVDs and Blu-rays
For those who prefer physical copies, DVDs and Blu-rays of all three Grinch movies are readily available. This is a great option for building your holiday movie collection.
Library Access: Free Grinch Viewing
Don’t forget about your local library! Many libraries carry DVDs of popular movies, including The Grinch. Borrowing a copy is a free and convenient way to enjoy the story.
The Joy of Reading: Returning to the Source
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of the original book! “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss is a timeless classic that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. Reading the book aloud is a wonderful family activity during the holiday season.
Predicting 2021 Air Dates: A Glimmer of Hope
While specific air dates for The Grinch on TV in 2021 are difficult to predict far in advance, we can make some educated guesses based on past trends.
Thanksgiving Weekend: A Potential Grinch Sighting
Keep an eye out for The Grinch during Thanksgiving weekend. Many networks start their holiday programming early, and Thanksgiving is a popular time for family movie nights.
December Weekends: Prime Grinch Time
Weekends in December are prime time for holiday movie airings. Check your local listings and TV guides for potential showings of The Grinch.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: The Ultimate Holiday Treat
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are the most likely times to find The Grinch on TV. Networks often schedule special holiday programming during these days, and The Grinch is a perennial favorite.
Staying Up-to-Date: Tips for Finding The Grinch
To ensure you don’t miss The Grinch on TV this Christmas 2021, here are some tips for staying informed:
- Check your local TV listings regularly: Keep an eye on your local TV listings, both online and in print, for updated schedules.
- Visit network websites: Check the websites of networks like NBC, ABC, Freeform, and others that typically air holiday movies.
- Use TV guide apps: Download TV guide apps to your smartphone or tablet for easy access to TV schedules.
- Set reminders: If you find a showing of The Grinch that you want to watch, set a reminder on your phone or TV to ensure you don’t miss it.
- Follow social media: Follow TV networks and streaming services on social media for announcements about holiday programming.
Why The Grinch Endures: The Enduring Appeal of a Christmas Classic
The story of The Grinch resonates with audiences of all ages for a reason. It’s a tale about redemption, forgiveness, and the true meaning of Christmas.
A Timeless Message: Beyond the Presents
At its heart, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” is a story about looking beyond the commercial aspects of the holiday season. It reminds us that Christmas is about more than just presents and decorations. It’s about spending time with loved ones, spreading joy, and embracing the spirit of generosity.
The Power of Transformation: A Change of Heart
The Grinch’s transformation from a grumpy, selfish creature to a kind and compassionate one is a powerful message of hope. It shows us that even the most hardened hearts can be changed by love and kindness.
Relatable Themes: Overcoming Grumpiness
Let’s be honest, everyone feels a little bit like the Grinch sometimes, especially during the stressful holiday season. The story reminds us that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed or grumpy, but that we can choose to embrace the joy of Christmas instead.
Streaming Services and The Grinch: A Deep Dive
The prevalence of streaming services has dramatically changed how we watch movies and TV shows. Let’s take a closer look at how these platforms factor into finding The Grinch during the holidays.
Netflix: A Strong Contender for Christmas Content
Netflix is known for its extensive library of movies and TV shows, including a growing selection of holiday-themed content. While there’s no guarantee, Netflix is a strong contender for streaming at least one version of The Grinch this year. Be sure to check their “Holiday Movie” category throughout December.
Hulu: Another Streaming Option to Consider
Hulu is another popular streaming service that offers a variety of holiday movies and TV shows. Like Netflix, Hulu is a potential home for The Grinch. Keep an eye on their holiday offerings as Christmas approaches.
Amazon Prime Video: A Versatile Platform for Grinch Fans
Amazon Prime Video offers a wide range of options for watching The Grinch. In addition to potentially streaming the movies as part of their Prime Video subscription, they also offer them for rent or purchase.
Peacock: NBC’s Streaming Service
Since NBC has historically aired “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”, their streaming service, Peacock, is a good bet for at least the animated version. Keep checking Peacock’s holiday content section as we get closer to Christmas.
The Grinch’s Enduring Legacy: More Than Just a Movie
The Grinch has become more than just a movie character; he’s a cultural icon. His image is instantly recognizable, and his story has become a part of our collective Christmas tradition.
Grinch-Themed Merchandise: Spreading the Grinch Spirit
From Grinch-themed ornaments and pajamas to Grinch-themed coffee mugs and socks, there’s no shortage of Grinch merchandise available. These items are a fun way to show your love for the character and spread the Grinch spirit during the holidays.
Grinch-Themed Events: Immersing Yourself in Whoville
Many cities and towns host Grinch-themed events during the holiday season, such as Grinch-themed parades, tree lightings, and even theatrical productions. These events offer a chance to immerse yourself in the world of Whoville and experience the Grinch story in a unique way.
The Grinch’s Influence on Pop Culture
The Grinch has had a significant influence on pop culture. His image and quotes are often used in memes, parodies, and other forms of online content. He’s become a shorthand way to express grumpiness or cynicism, especially during the holiday season.
Conclusion: Embrace the Grinch This Christmas, However You Can!
So, will The Grinch be on TV this Christmas 2021? The answer is likely yes, but it requires some planning and vigilance to find the specific air dates and times. Whether you prefer the classic animated version, the live-action adaptation, or the more recent animated film, there are plenty of ways to enjoy The Grinch this holiday season.
From checking your local TV listings and streaming services to purchasing DVDs or borrowing them from the library, there’s a Grinch option for everyone. And remember, even if you can’t find The Grinch on TV, you can always read the original book and embrace the timeless message of kindness, generosity, and the true meaning of Christmas. So, get ready to embrace your inner Grinch (and then let it go!), and enjoy the holiday season!
What classic Grinch movies and specials can I watch during the 2021 holiday season?
Several adaptations of Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” are generally available each holiday season. You can typically find the beloved 1966 animated special, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”, narrated by Boris Karloff, airing on television networks like NBC or ABC Family (Freeform). Also, keep an eye out for the 2000 live-action film starring Jim Carrey, which is often broadcast on various channels throughout December, along with the 2018 animated film “The Grinch,” featuring Benedict Cumberbatch.
Streaming services also play a large role in accessing these holiday favorites. Platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Peacock may offer one or more Grinch adaptations for streaming subscribers. Check their offerings closer to the holiday season, as availability can change from year to year. Don’t forget to explore on-demand rental options from services like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, and Apple TV+ if you can’t find them streaming or on traditional television.
Are there any new Grinch-related programs or content planned for the 2021 holiday season?
While there weren’t specific brand new Grinch movies or specials announced for 2021, it’s essential to check network programming schedules closer to the holiday season. Television networks often announce holiday lineups and specials later in the year. Check the official websites of networks like NBC, ABC, and cable channels like Freeform for any potential surprise announcements or themed programming blocks.
Furthermore, keep an eye on streaming service announcements. Streaming platforms are constantly updating their content libraries, and original holiday content is a big draw. Search for “Grinch” or “Dr. Seuss” on your favorite streaming service to see if any new related content appears closer to the holidays. Online searches and entertainment news sites will also alert you to any new releases or announcements as they occur.
Besides the Grinch, what other classic holiday movies and specials are usually available on TV in 2021?
The holiday season is usually filled with numerous classic movies and specials beyond the Grinch. Expect to see perennial favorites like “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “Miracle on 34th Street” airing on major networks and cable channels. These are often staples of holiday programming and appear on multiple networks throughout the season.
Additionally, many channels dedicate significant airtime to holiday-themed movies, ranging from classics to more recent releases. Hallmark Channel and Lifetime are well-known for their extensive lineup of original holiday movies, while networks like TBS and TNT often broadcast popular films like “Elf,” “A Christmas Story,” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Streaming services also offer a wide variety of holiday content, from classic films to original movies and series.
What streaming services are likely to feature holiday movies and specials in 2021?
Most major streaming services invest heavily in holiday content. Netflix is known for its extensive library of holiday movies, including originals and classics. Hulu often offers a selection of holiday movies and specials, along with live TV options that allow you to watch holiday programming on traditional networks. Amazon Prime Video has a variety of holiday movies available for streaming, rental, or purchase.
Disney+ provides a great selection of family-friendly holiday movies and specials, including content from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel. HBO Max also features a growing collection of holiday movies, leveraging its vast library of films and television shows. Services like Peacock, Paramount+, and Apple TV+ are also contenders, offering a mix of original and licensed holiday content.
How can I find out specific air dates and times for holiday movies and specials?
Several resources can help you find specific air dates and times for holiday movies and specials. Check your local television listings, either online or in print, for schedules from major networks and cable channels. Many websites, such as TV Guide and Zap2it, provide comprehensive TV listings that allow you to search for specific programs or browse by date and time.
Network websites and social media accounts are also excellent sources of information. Major networks often announce their holiday programming schedules well in advance. Furthermore, various online holiday movie schedules are specifically curated to track air dates and streaming availability, which can be discovered through a simple internet search. Setting up alerts on streaming services for specific titles will also ensure you don’t miss when they become available.
Are there any holiday movie marathons planned for TV in 2021?
Holiday movie marathons are a staple of television programming during the holiday season. Channels like Hallmark Channel and Lifetime are renowned for their holiday movie marathons, often running them throughout November and December. TBS and TNT also frequently host movie marathons featuring popular holiday films, such as “A Christmas Story” or “Elf.” These networks usually announce their marathon schedules weeks in advance.
In addition to traditional television, keep an eye on streaming services, as some may offer curated collections or playlists for holiday movie marathons. Checking the programming guides for channels like Freeform (formerly ABC Family), which is known for its “25 Days of Christmas” programming block, is crucial. News outlets and entertainment websites dedicated to TV and streaming also typically provide detailed listings of holiday movie marathons as the season approaches.
How can I ensure my kids can watch their favorite holiday shows without cable?
Several options allow children to watch their favorite holiday shows without cable. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video offer a wide selection of holiday movies and specials that can be accessed with a subscription. These platforms are often accessible on various devices, including smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones.
Another option is to use an over-the-air (OTA) antenna to access free broadcast television channels. Major networks like ABC, NBC, and CBS often air holiday programming, which can be viewed with a digital antenna. Streaming services offering live TV, like Sling TV, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV, also provide access to network channels and holiday specials without a traditional cable subscription. You can also purchase individual episodes or movies through services like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, and Apple TV+.