The fictional portrayal of Santa Claus has evolved significantly since his first appearance in fourth-century fables. One of the earliest depictions of a gift-bringing figure was Saint Nicholas, a Christian bishop known for his generosity and kindness, who laid the foundation for the modern Santa Claus.
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In the 1820s, the famous poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" — commonly known as "The Night Before Christmas" — contributed to Santa's popular image as a jolly, rotund man with a sleigh and reindeer. This poem solidified Santa's connection to Christmas and established many enduring characteristics.
In the mid-20th century, the Coca-Cola Co.'s marketing campaigns famously portrayed Santa as a plump, bearded figure in a red suit, further shaping the modern Santa's iconic appearance.
Over the years, Santa Claus has been featured in numerous books, movies, musical works and television shows. Classic Christmas movies such as "Miracle on 34th Street" (1947) and "The Santa Clause" (1994) have added depth to the Santa character, emphasizing his warm-hearted nature and his connection to the spirit of Christmas. Songs including Buck Owens' "Santa Looked a Lot Like Daddy" keep him alive as a symbol of childhood innocence. (On the opposite end of the spectrum, a man dressed as Santa and his gang once robbed a bank in Texas.)
Modern films continue to depict Santa Claus in various ways, from the action-packed Netflix Christmas movie "The Christmas Chronicles" (2018) to animated hits such as "The Polar Express" (2004). These portrayals continue to adapt and expand upon the beloved figure, keeping the magic of Santa alive for generations to come. Santa's portrayal in modern media captures the enduring appeal of a character rooted in centuries of tradition and folklore.
Here are the best on-screen portrayals of Ol' Saint Nick, and where to watch each.
12. Paul Giamatti - 'Fred Claus' (2007)
Warner Bros.
Jolliness Level: 5/10
Paul Giamatti's portrayal of Santa Claus is a unique and memorable one. In the film "Fred Claus," he brings a distinct twist to the character. Giamatti's Santa is a bit different from the traditional image: He's gruff and exasperated as he faces the challenges of running the North Pole. However, he also showcases a warm and compassionate side, demonstrating genuine concern for his brother Fred. Giamatti's performance adds depth and humor to the role of Santa, making him a relatable and endearing character in the story, offering a fresh take on the beloved holiday icon.
Where to watch: Max
11. Tom Hanks - 'The Polar Express' (2004)
Warner Bros
Jolliness Level: 6/10
Tom Hanks is seen as "America's Dad," so he makes a natural fit as Santa Claus. In one of the seven roles Hanks voiced for "The Polar Express," he embodies a boisterous, jolly St. Nick with a booming voice and commanding presence. His turn as a CGI Santa showcases his ability to infuse warmth and humor into the character. Although the significantly dated animation dips into the uncanny valley and Santa's eyes lack his signature twinkle, Hanks manages to instill a childlike sense of wonder aboard the Polar Express train, making him a standout Santa in the world of holiday films.
Where to watch: Rent on Amazon
10. Jeff Gillen - 'A Christmas Story' (1983)
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Jolliness Level: 1/10
In "A Christmas Story," Santa takes on a different role, one that is both amusing and slightly unnerving. Jeff Gillen's portrayal of Santa at the department store defies the traditional jolliness associated with the character. The film revolves around Ralphie's childhood experiences during the holiday season, including a memorable encounter with Santa. As Ralphie waits in line with his younger brother, they realize that this Santa isn't like the others. Gillen's Santa, along with his grumpy elves, conveys a sense of misery. Santa's close-ups, sneering question, and the urgency of the elves create a palpable sense of panic, capturing the weight of the all-important Christmas wish in the eyes of a child. Gillen's Santa in "A Christmas Story" is an unforgettable character that stands out for his unique take on the role.
Where to watch: Sling TV, rent on Amazon, Hulu TV
9. Billy Bob Thornton - 'Bad Santa' (2003)
Dimension Films
Jolliness Level: 0/10
Billy Bob Thornton's portrayal of Santa in "Bad Santa" takes a subversive turn, presenting a Santa who is more Scrooge than Saint Nick. Thornton's Santa, known as Willie, is a grubby, horrid character who despises children and takes liberties instead of giving gifts. He's haggard, skinny and sports a straggly fake beard, all of which contribute to his unique portrayal. Despite his misanthropic nature, a young boy manages to thaw Willie's heart, turning this dark comedy into a twisted "Christmas Carol" story. "Bad Santa" offers a gritty and unconventional take on the holiday season, with Thornton delivering a performance that's as authentic as it is darkly humorous.
Where to watch: Pluto TV, Paramount+
8. Mickey Rooney - 'The Year Without a Santa Claus' (1974)
Rankin/Bass Productions
Jolliness Level: 8/10
Mickey Rooney's vocal performance as Santa in "The Year Without a Santa Claus" is a standout, making this Rankin/Bass Christmas special a beloved classic. Rooney infuses Santa with warmth, wit and wonder, capturing the essence of a stop-motion Santa. In the story, Santa wakes up with a sniffle and contemplates taking a year off, convinced that children will understand. However, he quickly regrets this decision and embarks on an adventure to rescue two elves and a reindeer in need of Christmas spirit. The film is known for iconic characters including Heat Miser and Snow Miser; but the emotional core is the touching song "I Believe in Santa Claus," which Rooney sings with heartfelt conviction. His portrayal of Santa instills belief in the things that make life worthwhile, such as the spirit of Christmas.
Where to watch: Rent on Amazon
7. Ed Asner - 'Elf' (2003)
New Line Cinema
Jolliness Level: 7/10
Ed Asner's portrayal of Santa Claus in "Elf" breaks away from the conventional tall and imposing image of Santa, fitting more closely with the description from "'Twas the Night Before Christmas." With a relatively short stature, Asner brings a unique charm to the role. His Santa possesses the classic rosy cheeks and twinkle in his eye, and exudes warmth. However, he also infuses the character with worldly cynicism and an occasional exasperation that doesn't diminish his Yuletide spirit. Asner's Santa feels like an affectionate uncle, offering encouragement and wisdom, even as he humorously navigates challenges such as paparazzi and his frequent visits to New York. He keeps the magic casual with a written record of children's Christmas wishes, adding wit, sincerity and relatability to his portrayal.
Where to watch: Max, rent on Amazon
6. Kurt Russell - 'The Christmas Chronicles' (2018) and 'The Christmas Chronicles 2' (2020)
Michael Gibson/Netflix
Jolliness Level: 7/10
Among the more recent interpretations of Kris Kringle, Kurt Russell's Santa Claus brings a unique blend of jolliness and swagger to the role. In "The Christmas Chronicles" and its sequel, Russell's portrayal of Santa is a delightful departure from tradition. After a sleigh mishap, Santa teams up with two kids on a mission to restore holiday cheer. Russell's Santa exudes competitiveness, confidence and a genuine heart, making him a lovable rogue in the world of Santas. With Goldie Hawn as Mrs. Claus, their chemistry adds depth to their portrayal, solidifying Russell as one of the standout movie Santas of recent years.
Where to watch: Netflix
5. David Harbour - 'Violent Night' (2022)
Lionsgate
Jolliness Level: 0/10
In "Violent Night," David Harbour's Santa Claus takes an unexpected turn, starting as a disillusioned Santa who finds solace in a pub. However, his peaceful break is interrupted when he stumbles into a home invasion thriller. Harbour's Santa combines a gruff exterior with a warm heart, a unique portrayal that makes him both brutal and endearing. As Santa, he fights off festive-named criminals with extreme and creative violence, all while cherishing the innocence of children's offerings. "Violent Night" offers a darker twist on the holiday season, and Harbour's Santa — with a penchant for both violence and sentimentality — becomes a memorable and unconventional addition to the world of Santa portrayals.
Where to watch: Prime Video
4. J.K. Simmons - 'Klaus' (2019)
Netflix
Jolliness Level: 8/10
"Klaus" reimagines the Santa Claus mythos, shifting the focus from Santa to Jesper, a postman's son. J.K. Simmons portrays Klaus, a reclusive woodsman and toymaker with a gruff exterior but a pure heart. Simmons infuses his performance with empathy, revealing the character's touching backstory and quiet warmth. The film's charming narrative centers on Jesper's quest to bring joy to a divided village, with Klaus' help. "Klaus" offers a fresh take on Santa's origin story, cleverly explaining various aspects of the Santa mythos. Simmons' gentle giant portrayal and the film's beautiful animation make it a standout addition to the world of Christmas movies.
Where to watch: Netflix
3. Tim Allen - 'The Santa Clause' Franchise (1994 - present)
Walt Disney Pictures
Jolliness Level: 3/10 (beginning) 9/10 (end)
Tim Allen's journey as Santa begins in Disney's "The Santa Clause," where he evolves from a reluctant suburban dad to the iconic movie Santa. In this modern classic, Scott Calvin inadvertently becomes Santa and embarks on a transformative journey. The concept of Santa as a job title for an everyday guy is both fun and heartwarming, and Allen's performance adds depth to this unique interpretation. As Scott, he navigates the challenges of being Santa while embracing the joys of the role. The franchise continued with sequels and a Disney+ series, underlining Allen's legacy as a defining Santa Claus for a generation of moviegoers.
Where to watch: Disney+
2. David Huddleston - 'Santa Claus: The Movie' (1985)
TriStar Pictures
Jolliness Level: 9/10
"Santa Claus: The Movie" brings a fresh perspective to the beloved character's origins, and David Huddleston's portrayal of Santa is a standout. Huddleston masterfully captures the essence of Santa with his warm, fatherly demeanor and jovial personality. Despite the film's quirks, Huddleston's embodiment of Santa radiates pure love and joy, creating a unique Christmas atmosphere that stays with the audience. The film explores Santa's journey, from his humble beginnings to a present-day battle with an evil businessman. Huddleston's gregarious energy and his portrayal as a "Tennessee biker uncle" Santa add a unique charm to the movie, making it a memorable holiday classic.
Where to watch: Rent on Amazon
1. Edmund Gwenn - 'Miracle on 34th Street' (1947)
IMDB/20th Century Fox
Jolliness Level: 10/10
Edmund Gwenn's portrayal of Kris Kringle in "Miracle on 34th Street" has secured its place as one of the most iconic and heartwarming depictions of Santa in film history. In this timeless classic, Gwenn's performance is nothing short of enchanting, especially when he invites young Susan (Natalie Wood) to tug on his very real beard to prove his authenticity. The film takes a daring turn as Kringle is faced with a court case in which he must defend his identity as Santa Claus or be committed to Bellevue Hospital. Gwenn's commitment and the twinkle in his eye make his Santa a truly endearing character, a portrayal so moving that it earned him an Academy Award. His gracious demeanor and the respect he shows to every child he encounters make him the embodiment of the spirit of Christmas, securing his status as one of the most beloved Santas in cinematic history.
Where to watch: Disney+
