The iconic Jim Carrey is the first person who instantly comes to mind when we hear the name Grinch. His performance in the 2000 film adaptation (How the Grinch Stole Christmas) as the green, anti-Christmas curmudgeon is practically legendary. But what if we told you that five other actors, each with their own distinct style, wore the fuzzy green costume and made the Grinch come to life?
For all the wrong reasons, the Grinch has become a Christmas-time classic. Dr. Seuss’ imaginary character despises Christmas and goes to great lengths to undermine this winter’s festive spirit. In the 1966 TV special, Boris Karloff provided the voice of the popular character for the first time. The Mask actor is one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, having portrayed the Grinch in How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000). This is a list of five notable actors who have played the furry, green, potbellied, pear-shaped, snub-nosed humanoid.
Also read: Even Jim Carrey Couldn’t Save The Grinch From Critics Hellbent On Destroying Its Credibility
1. Boris Karloff in How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
The first actor to take on the role before Jim Carrey put on those green shoes was none other than the renowned horror icon Boris Karloff. He voiced and narrated the 1966 television special How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, bringing the irascible character that is adored by millions to life. His gloomy tone and eerie charm made the Grinch incredibly popular among all age groups, paving the way for subsequent Grinch interpretations.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is streaming on Peacock Premium.
2. Benedict Cumberbatch in The Grinch
The Grinch’s beloved tale was brought back to life in an animated film in 2018, a task that the gifted Benedict Cumberbatch accepted. His rich baritone voice and flawless comedic timing gave the character a distinctly British twist, evoking laughter and sympathy from the audience for the Christmas-hating recluse. We could not help but smile at Cumberbatch’s portrayal of the Grinch because it highlighted both his iconic traits and his emotional transformation.
Watch The Grinch on FuboTV.
Also read: The Christmas Movie Role Played by Both Jim Carrey and 1 Avengers: Endgame Star
3. David Howard Thornton in The Mean One
In technical terms, The Mean One (2022) can’t be said to be a Grinch movie. It took the title from the iconic Grinch song to refer to its antagonist, The Mean One. The character is played by David Howard Thronton. He played Art the Clown in the Terrifier movies, so he is no stranger to putting on a new face to play dreadful antagonists. For that reason, The Mean One—who has a striking resemblance to Jim Carrey’s Grinch—is still alive and ready to cause havoc around Christmas and in the neighborhood.
You can buy The Mean One on Amazon Video.
4. James Austin Johnson in ‘Tis the Grinch Holiday Talk Show
Actors who have portrayed the Grinch have mainly been playing different takes on the character. Seldom does the narrative alter. (A notable, unofficial exception would be The Mean One.) Nonetheless, James Austin Johnson reimagines the horror of Who-Ville in the brand-new Wondery podcast, Tis the Grinch Holiday Talk Show. In the podcast, the Grinch hosts a talk show with his adorable dog Max.
During the show, the Green Meanie rants against the spirit of the holidays and makes fun of famous guests like Bobby Moynihan, Pete Holmes, Bob Odenkirk, and Skai Jackson.
5. Matthew Morrison in Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Musical Live!
The Glee star, Matthew Morrison, donning the green guy’s fur for Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Musical Live!, assumed the lead role in the NBC television adaptation. Morrison’s portrayal was disillusioned with the NBC special, despite his outstanding performance in the stage adaptation. Nonetheless, the actor’s enduring fame stems from his legendary performance as the Grinch.
Watch Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Musical on Peacock Premium.
Although there may be only one true Grinch, there are many different ways to fill those fuzzy green shoes. Boris Karloff, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Matthew Morrison all added their unique magic to the green character. Take a moment to recognize the variety of Grinches who have contributed to the enduring legacy of Dr. Seuss’s well-loved Grinch the next time you pull out your copy of How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
