CBS has faced backlash after replacing holiday classics like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman with celebrity-driven specials. The network’s new lineup features programs such as An Evening With Dua Lipa, Josh Groban & Friends Go Home for the Holidays, and Nate Bargatze’s Nashville Christmas. While these specials aim to attract diverse audiences, many fans miss the nostalgic appeal of the animated classics that aired for decades on CBS.
The switch comes after CBS lost the rights to Rudolph and Frosty, and its replacement content has struggled to capture similar cultural resonance. Early efforts, such as the animated Reindeer in Here, failed to create the same buzz. Fans have criticized the network for abandoning traditional holiday staples, which were seen as a cherished part of the season.
Dua Lipa’s concert special, featuring Elton John, premieres December 15, showcasing a mix of live performances and reflections on her career. Josh Groban’s special on December 20 highlights family and adoption awareness, while Nate Bargatze’s December 19 show combines comedy and holiday cheer in a Nashville setting.
While CBS hopes these specials will usher in a fresh holiday tradition, the move underscores a shift in how networks approach seasonal programming. However, the criticism highlights the strong attachment audiences have to holiday classics that evoke a sense of nostalgia and tradition.
