With the holidays fast approaching, television networks FOX, Warner Horizon Scripted, and Alternative Television will soon bid viewers a nostalgic seasons greetings with the upcoming premiere of “A Christmas Story Live!”. The three-hour special is due to air on Sunday, December 17 at 7:00 PM ET on FOX. Perhaps one of the most well-known holiday classics of the eighties, this new live televised version of “A Christmas Story” is bound to be a major Christmas throwback.
About the show
When “A Christmas Story” originally premiered in 1983, no one would have predicted it would become the cult-classic it is today.
Initially, the holiday-themed comedy released shortly after Thanksgiving, and its reception was lukewarm at best. Somewhere along the line, however, the quirky Ralphie made it into the hearts of viewers across America.
Set in the 1940s, “A Christmas Story” follows the adventures of nine-year-old Ralphie Parker, who spends most of the film yearning for a Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-shot rifle. Ralphie’s Christmas gift request, however, appears to be dismissed by every adult he encounters, including his parents and a rather frightening mall Santa Claus. In addition, Ralphie must navigate the holiday-induced craziness and mundanities of everyday life amidst a kooky family. Narrating the story in the form of off-screen voice-over is grown-up Ralphie.
Remaking the Christmas comedy classic
Recreating such a staple 80s holiday hit falls under the direction of producer Marc Platt (whose other credentials include “Wicked” and “La La Land”) and Adam Siegal. Also on board the “A Christmas Story Live!” creative team are executive producers Jonathan Tolins and Robert Cary of “Grease: Live” and Tony-winning composers, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul of “Dear Evan Hansen.” The musical duo will be contributing several original songs for the live program.
While little is being released about the actual set and staging of the live production, according to FOX, the televised event is largely inspired by “A Christmas Story: The Musical.” Additionally, Tony award-winning actor, Matthew Broderick of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and “The Producers,” will serve as the story’s narrator, adult Ralphie Parker.
Sharing the screen with Broderick as young Ralphie is newcomer, Andy Walken.
Performing alongside Broderick and Walken is an all-star cast, including "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" actress, Jane Krakowski, SNL comedian, Maya Rudolph, and “Community’s” Ken Jeong.
With a celebrity cast and creative team, “A Christmas Story Live!” will surely be the highlight of this year’s holiday-themed programs.
