Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer Won’t Be Shown On CBS

Source: University of Southern California / Getty
For half a century, CBS has been the home of one of the most beloved holiday traditions—Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. The iconic claymation special, which first aired on December 6, 1964, has been a cherished part of holiday celebrations, bringing families together to watch the heartwarming story of Rudolph, his glowing nose, and his journey to becoming a Christmas hero.
However, this year marks the end of an era. For the first time in 50 years, Rudolph will not air on CBS. In a surprising turn of events, the special is returning to NBC, the network where it made its debut all those years ago. This shift in broadcasting marks a significant change in holiday programming, as CBS has aired Rudolph every Christmas season since 1965, becoming synonymous with the special for generations of viewers.
The Rudolph tradition is far from over, though. The beloved reindeer will still shine brightly in 2024, but now it will light up your screens on NBC. The special will air on Friday, December 6, at 7 p.m., with an encore presentation scheduled for December 12. Fans can still gather around the TV to enjoy the magic of Rudolph, his companions, and the festive world of the North Pole—just on a different network.
While CBS will no longer be the home for Rudolph, its place in holiday history remains secure. The switch to NBC brings the special full circle, returning to the network where it all began. As we enter the holiday season, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer continues to be a timeless classic, reminding us all of the power of acceptance, kindness, and the spirit of Christmas.
Mark your calendars, because even though this marks the end of an era for CBS, Rudolph is still here to spread holiday cheer, now on NBC. Don’t miss out on this festive tradition—set your DVRs, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this nostalgic special that has brought joy for 50 years and counting.
