journalfront

Television

Holiday Television Specials Galore for 2024

2024-11-26

Get ready to cozy up with a hot chocolate and a blanket as we dive into the world of 2024 holiday television specials. Many network channels are airing an array of holiday-themed shows, from parades and musical performances to classic movies. ABC, NBC, CBS, and CW have all released their 2024 schedules, promising to bring the holiday spirit right to our screens. Your favorite shows are also getting in on the action with holiday episodes. Let's take a look at all the wonderful holiday shows and specials airing this year.

Uncover the Magic of 2024 Holiday TV Specials

ABC's Holiday Lineup

ABC is bringing a plethora of holiday cheer with shows like "The Wonderful World of Disney Presents Mary Poppins" at 8 p.m. on Nov. 28. There's also "7 p.m. Dec. 1; ABC" with "AFV’s Wreck the Halls: 35 Years of Holiday Hijinks" and "The Wonderful World of Disney: Holiday Spectacular" at 8:01 p.m. on Dec. 1. On Dec. 8, at 8:31 a.m., we have "Illumination Presents: Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch". And on Dec. 10, it's a treat with "Olaf’s Frozen Adventure" at 8 p.m., followed by "Disney Prep & Landing" at 9 p.m. and "Disney Prep & Landing 2: Naughty vs. Nice" at 9:30 p.m.

ABC continues to spread the holiday joy with "CMA Country Christmas" at 8 p.m. on Dec. 3, "The Great Christmas Light Fight: 1203" at 8 p.m. on Dec. 5, "The Great Christmas Light Fight: 1202" at 9 a.m. on Dec. 5, "The Great Christmas Light Fight: 1204" at 8 p.m. on Dec. 12, and "The Great Christmas Light Fight: 1205" at 8 p.m. on Dec. 19. Additionally, "The Great Christmas Light Fight: 1206" airs at 9 p.m. on Dec. 19.

NBC's Holiday Extravaganza

Starting on Nov. 28 at 8:30 a.m. (encore at 2 p.m.), NBC kicks off the holiday fun. There's "The Great Christmas Light Fight: 1203" again at 8 p.m. on Dec. 5 (encore on Dec. 25). On Dec. 6, it's 8 p.m., and on Dec. 12, we have 8 p.m. again. At 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 5 and 8 p.m. on Dec. 11, there are more holiday shows. And don't miss "NBA on Christmas Day" with various games throughout the day, starting at noon with the San Antonio Spurs at the New York Knicks on ABC.

Also, on Dec. 24, we have "The Price Is Right at Night" at 8 p.m. and "Christmas Eve Mass" at 11:30 p.m. And on Dec. 26, "Dolly Parton’s Mountain Magic Christmas" airs at 9 p.m.

CW's Holiday Delights

Noon on Nov. 28, CW presents "National Dog Show Presented by Purina". On Nov. 29 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 18 at 8 p.m., there are shows. At 9 p.m. on Dec. 1, we have "Penn & Teller: Merry Fool Us", and at 8 p.m. on Dec. 14, there's another special. "Best Christmas Movies Ever!" airs at 8 p.m. on Dec. 9.

Other Holiday Highlights

On Dec. 15 at 8:30 p.m., CBS brings "An Evening With Dua Lipa". And on Dec. 20 at 8 p.m., we have the "National Christmas Tree Lighting". There are also various other shows and specials throughout the month on different networks, making the 2024 holiday season a truly magical time on television.

The Bravo reality show is gearing up for its 12th season with an entirely fresh cast. Lisa Vanderpump, the show's namesake, will remain at the helm, continuing to shape its narrative. For over a decade, the staff at the West Hollywood restaurant SUR have been a cornerstone of the Bravo reality show universe in "Vanderpump Rules." Their cheating scandals, workplace dramas, and, yes, more cheating scandals have kept viewers hooked. But as Lisa Vanderpump herself said, "in the restaurant business, one shift always gives way to another." This season, a new group of employees will join Vanderpump, marking a final goodbye to the original stars who have grown from birthday party dramas in their early 20s to facing marriages, children, and divorces. If past seasons are any indication, these new waiters and bartenders will be embroiled in gossip and fights in the SUR parking lot while on the clock, with restaurant work taking a backseat.

An Extraordinary Run and Gratitude

The last 12 years of filming this show have been an extraordinary journey filled with a plethora of emotions. From laughter to tears and everything in between, it has been a rollercoaster ride. Vanderpump expressed her deep gratitude, stating that she couldn't thank enough those who have shared their lives with her. She loves them all and looks forward to the next generation of "Vanderpump Rules." The SURvers, who started as waiters and bartenders, have gone on to have diverse careers. Some moved on to other parts of Vanderpump's operations, while others faced the ups and downs of being fired and rehired. A few even ventured into their own restaurants and spin-off shows.

The Franchise's Beginnings

The "Vanderpump" franchise traces its roots back to 2010 when Vanderpump made her Bravo debut as an original cast member of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills." Her own spin-off, "Vanderpump Rules," followed in 2013, introducing a cast of characters that have remained a significant part of the show. This cast includes Jax Taylor, Stassi Schroeder, Kristen Doute, Tom Schwartz, Lala Kent, Ariana Madix, and Tom Sandoval. One of the many cheating scandals involving these individuals made Sandoval a household name last year. "Scandoval" became a phenomenon, echoing through the reality television universe.

The Next Wave of Reality Television

Bravo's announcement on Tuesday officially heralded the arrival of a new wave of reality television hopefuls. It remains unclear when filming will commence, but the excitement is palpable. Alex Baskin, the show's executive producer, expressed his enthusiasm, stating that it is a thrill to build on the series' legacy by starting anew. With profound appreciation for the original group and their iconic run, they are eager for the audience to witness a dynamic new group of co-workers and friends navigate life together.

Angelina Jolie has long been renowned for her ability to steal the show. In the Pablo Larrain–helmed Maria, based on the life of Maria Callas, she faces rare competition from the gorgeously crafted wardrobe by Massimo Cantini Parrini. This film showcases how clothes represent different aspects of Callas' life, from avant-garde costumes in her performances to luxe coats in her social life. The oversize glasses and precious details symbolize her inner perfectionism.

Unveiling the Fashion Feast of Maria Callas

Style of Maria Callas and Translating it to the Screen

Finding inspiration for Maria Callas' wardrobe wasn't difficult as she was a diva with many interviews and photos. But digging deeper revealed more about her life. Guided by Pablo Larrain's ideas, Massimo Cantini Parrini designed 60 costumes, with around 50 making it into the movie. This wardrobe spanned the '50s, '60s, and '70s.

Showcasing Clothes Beyond Maria's Body

Re-creating Maria's world was crucial. With the production designer, they presented her clothes in her room and walk-in wardrobe. These rooms were filled with memories and mementos. Dresses seen on mannequins in her secret room were also worn by Angelina Jolie. One prominent piece was her cream nightgown, which was designed to give her a sense of protection and joy at home.

Creating the Perfect Nightgown

The cream nightgown was designed imagining it as Maria's protection. Inspiration was drawn from grandmother's dressing gowns. Made in an ivory light color, it was different from her usual black outfits. Worked closely with an old lady in Rome who knitted it with two wool yarns, creating a 3D effect.

The Effect of Opulence through Wardrobe and Angelina Jolie

Working on this film with Angelina Jolie was a rare experience. She entered the character and stayed in it throughout. When creating the clothes, Massimo Cantini Parrini had Maria Callas in mind. Having Angelina wear them was extremely moving. She was professional during wardrobe preparation, and together they chose the best fabrics.

Essential Accessories for Maria's World

Accessories are crucial in a movie like this. Most jewellery had to be re-created as it wasn't easy to find. Maria loved scarves and there were different types of footwear and gloves. Gathering all these accessories took a lot of time and effort, with many found in London and Italy.

A Specific Proudly Created Item

There are two garments Massimo Cantini Parrini is proud of. The dressing gown took a lot of time to design and make, with the right proportions and special allure. The performance outfit for Maria Callas in Madea is also special, with a simple silhouette painted by hand from scratch.