LDT “Families Gear Up for the Holidays as “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000) Returns to Center Stage”
As Christmas approaches and homes across the U.S. begin to glow with lights, ornaments, and the scent of pine, one holiday tradition is already reclaiming its spot at the top of seasonal watchlists: Ron Howard’s 2000 classic, How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
More than two decades after its release, the film remains one of the most beloved and most-watched Christmas movies in America — thanks in large part to Jim Carrey’s unforgettable, larger-than-life performance as the Grinch. What began as a bold reimagining of Dr. Seuss’s timeless tale has since become an annual viewing event, uniting generations around a story that blends humor, heart, and holiday warmth.
This year is no different. As households prepare for gatherings, parties, and cozy nights indoors, streaming platforms and networks are once again reporting a seasonal surge in searches and watch-time for the film. It’s easy to understand why: the movie captures everything audiences crave during the holidays — laughter, nostalgia, and a message that feels just as meaningful now as it did in 1957 when Dr. Seuss first wrote it.
The film follows the isolated and ill-tempered Grinch as he plots to steal Christmas from the festive Whos of Whoville, only to discover that the real spirit of the season has nothing to do with gifts or decorations. With its whimsical production design, iconic makeup effects, and heartwarming finale, the movie has cemented itself as a cultural staple that families return to year after year.
For many Americans, the holiday season doesn’t truly begin until the Grinch stomps onto the screen with his signature scowl — and eventually, a heart three sizes larger. Whether viewers are tuning in for the nostalgia, the comedy, or simply to relive a childhood favorite, How the Grinch Stole Christmas continues to prove its staying power.
As Christmas draws closer, one question remains:
Will your family be watching the Grinch this year?
