Channel 4 Unveils Heartwarming Christmas Comedy Drama 'Dear Father Christmas'

Channel 4 is set to delight viewers this Christmas Eve with the premiere of 'Dear Father Christmas,' a one-off comedy drama promising a blend of festive cheer, family bonding, and a touch of scientific mystery. The 75-minute special, created by Mark Chappell, centers on a 16-year-old's unwavering belief in Santa Claus and his father's attempt to reveal the truth.

Key Takeaways

• A heartwarming and hilarious one-off comedy drama titled 'Dear Father Christmas' will air on Channel 4 on Christmas Eve.

• The story follows a 16-year-old who still believes in Santa Claus, leading to a comedic and adventurous quest.

• The special features a star-studded cast, including Lenny Rush, James Buckley, Greg Davies, and special guest appearances from Stephen Fry.

A Tale of Belief and Family Bonds

'Dear Father Christmas' stars Lenny Rush as Chris, a teenager who steadfastly holds onto his belief in Father Christmas. His father, portrayed by James Buckley, feels it's time to share the truth about Santa. However, Chris is determined to prove his father wrong, embarking on a mission to find definitive proof of Santa's existence.

The narrative takes a turn as Chris, accompanied by his cousin Holly (Ele Mckenzie), delves into a Christmas conspiracy. His journey leads him to encounter a group of scientists and thinkers, including Stephen Fry, Hannah Fry, Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, and Jason Fox, who appear to possess knowledge about Santa and the science behind his magical feats.

A Star-Studded Festive Offering

The comedy drama boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Alongside Rush and Buckley, the special features Greg Davies, Asim Chaudhry, Rochenda Sandall, and Ele Mckenzie. Notable guest appearances include the esteemed Stephen Fry, adding further star power to this festive production.

Celebrating Christmas Magic

Channel 4 describes 'Dear Father Christmas' as a heartwarming and hilarious special that celebrates the magic of Christmas, the bond between a father and son, and honours the memory of Chris's late mother and her cherished traditions. The film aims to deliver joy, adventure, and wonder to viewers.

Jonah Weston, Commissioner for Channel 4, stated, "Dear Father Christmas is Channel 4's big festive treat for 2025. Mark Chappell's brilliant script weaves together family comedy, heartfelt drama and a playful look at the science of Santa, brought to life by a cast packed with some of Britain's best-loved stars. It's a film full of joy, adventure and wonder, and we're thrilled to be sharing it with viewers this Christmas."

Kenton Allen from Big Talk Studios added, "At its heart, Dear Father Christmas is a joyful celebration of belief, family and the enduring magic of Christmas. Mark Chappell's brilliant script brings together an extraordinary cast - from comedy icons to national treasures - who all share in telling a story that is both laugh-out-loud funny and genuinely moving."

'Dear Father Christmas' is scheduled to air on Channel 4 on Christmas Eve, with a repeat broadcast on Christmas Day.

Key Takeaways

• Dear Father Christmas comedy drama to air on Channel 4, British Comedy Guide.