TV Producer’s Christmas Tradition Book Hits Big Screen
Adam Reed, a veteran TV producer known for his work on reality shows such as “Gene Simmons Family Jewels”, “Hatfields and McCoys”, and “Mama June”, had a desire to start a unique Christmas tradition for his daughter. He wanted something that would be pure magic for her, without adding stress for the parents. This inspired Reed to write a children’s book and create a new holiday tradition centered around a plush reindeer.
From Concept to Creation
Reed initially struggled to zero in on the concept for his new holiday tradition. Eventually, he decided that the most magical aspect of Christmas—besides Santa—was a reindeer. After working with an illustrator to develop ideas, Reed decided on a reindeer with mismatched antlers, a unique character that would stand out from other holiday traditions. As a result, the “Reindeer in Here” book and plush gift set was born.
The Tradition
In the story, the reindeer is an early gift from Santa who has been sent to get to know each child’s true Christmas wishes while celebrating what makes them unique. Similar to “Elf on the Shelf”, children are encouraged to name their reindeer, communicate their wishes to Santa through the reindeer, and let him or her return to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. However, unlike elves, reindeer don’t move around the house, giving kids the freedom to touch, snuggle, and take them with them wherever they go.
The Success
“Reindeer in Here” quickly caught the attention of CBS, which picked up the animated special to become the new “Rudolph.” The film premiered last year and became the No. 2 animated holiday special, just behind “Rudolph.” The success continued, with the animated special being nominated for two Emmy Awards and featuring an A-list cast, including Henry Winkler, Candace Cameron Bure, and Jim Gaffigan.
Looking Ahead
The latest development for “Reindeer in Here” is the 2023 premiere, set for Dec. 2 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS, as well as streaming availability on Paramount+ and Nick Jr. “Reindeer in Here” products are now available at various retailers, including Target and Barnes and Noble, as well as online.
Reed hopes that “Reindeer in Here” will become a staple tradition for families looking for something new during the holidays, and acknowledging that the true message of the book is that “different is normal.” So, for families who still love their elf, Reed suggests incorporating the reindeer by making it the elf’s best friend to remove the stress of having to move it around.
The Christmas tradition that started with a simple story and a plush reindeer has now transformed into a major animated special. While the journey began from a father’s desire to create a magical holiday tradition for his child, “Reindeer in Here” has grown in leaps and bounds, capturing the hearts of families across the nation.