The CW has revealed its holiday programming lineup, and it’s a stocking stuffed with a mix of new specials, festive films, and returning favorites. From heartwarming classics to slightly off-kilter celebrations, the network looks to cater to a broad range of holiday tastes.
For those seeking a touch of holiday magic with a dash of existentialism, Nicolas Cage stars in The Family Man, airing November 10. Cage plays a high-flying investment broker who gets a glimpse of the road not taken, waking up in a quiet suburban life he once rejected. It’s It’s a Wonderful Life with a Wall Street twist, offering a chance to ponder life’s big questions amidst the holiday cheer.
The Walton family returns on November 16 with A Waltons Thanksgiving, offering a dose of Depression-era nostalgia. The family deals with economic hardship and heartwarming life lessons, reminding us of the importance of togetherness and resilience during tough times. Then, on November 17, The Holiday delivers a modern romantic comedy with Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz swapping homes and finding unexpected love in the process.
Nostalgia reigns supreme with the return of Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer on November 29, celebrating its 25th anniversary. This goofy animated special follows young Jake Spankenheimer’s quest to prove Santa’s existence after his grandma’s unfortunate encounter with a sleigh. Magic and mayhem continue with a holiday-themed episode of Penn & Teller: Merry Fool Us on December 1st, featuring the duo’s signature blend of illusions and humor.
Romance blossoms on December 7 with A California Christmas, a story of a wealthy charmer who goes undercover as a ranch hand to woo a hardworking farmer. Then, on December 8, Benedict Cumberbatch voices the grumpy green one in Illumination Presents: Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch, a visually stunning retelling of the classic Christmas tale.
Film buffs can rejoice with the new special Best Christmas Movies Ever!, airing December 9. Over 50 stars, writers, and critics share their love for holiday classics, from Home Alone and Elf to Die Hard (yes, it’s a Christmas movie, fight me). The special aims to capture the spirit of the season through the lens of iconic cinematic moments.
On December 14th, The 92 Annual Hollywood Christmas Parade rolls into town, hosted by Dean Cain, Laura McKenzie, Montel Williams, and Elizabeth Stanton. Expect celebrity appearances, dazzling floats, and the big man himself, Santa Claus, spreading holiday cheer. Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night airs December 15, with a unique perspective on the Nativity story through the eyes of a young mother and shepherd boy.
The Waltons return once again on December 21 with The Waltons’ Homecoming, a Depression-era story of family, faith, and a young boy’s journey to find his father on Christmas Eve. Finally, on December 22, Tyler Perry’s Madea brings her signature brand of chaos and humor to the holidays in Tyler Perry’s A Madea Christmas. Expect shocking revelations and bitter feuds amidst the small-town Christmas festivities.
