Everything 80s Rewind: 10 Classic 1980s TV Christmas Specials
Dec 24, 2025
Dive into the nostalgia of 1980s Christmas specials! Discover the cultural significance of network holiday programming and highlights like Ziggy's Gift, which won an Emmy. Revisit the hilarious antics of A Chipmunk Christmas and the classic Muppet Family Christmas. Marvel at Jim Henson's The Christmas Toy, which influenced Pixar, and enjoy the whimsical Pee-wee's Playhouse Christmas. Did you know The Simpsons made their holiday debut with a bang? Relive the joy of these timeless gems that shaped our festive celebrations.
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Episode notes
Babes In Toyland's Big TV Moment
- Jamie recounts the 1986 TV movie Babes in Toyland starring Drew Barrymore, Keanu Reeves, and Pat Morita.
- He notes its long original broadcast (about 140 minutes) and later heavy edits for home video.
Ed Asner's Santa Role In The Christmas Star
- Jamie summarizes The Christmas Star (1986) about a felon who escapes dressed as Santa and learns the meaning of Christmas.
- He highlights Ed Asner's role and links it to Asner playing Santa again in Elf (2003).
Ziggy's Quiet Emmy Win
- Ziggy's Gift (1982) won the 1983 Emmy for Outstanding Animated Program despite Ziggy's nonverbal nature.
- Jamie notes it beat out two Charlie Brown specials that year, showing its impact.